Slovakia, a long-standing ally of Kyiv since Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year, has been actively supporting the country by providing arms and welcoming refugees escaping the war.
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In a surprising move, Slovakia’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Robert Fico, declared that his country would cease arms deliveries to Ukraine. Instead, they will prioritize providing humanitarian and civilian aid to their neighboring nation.
Fico, who leads a coalition government including a pro-Russian far-right party, emphasized that Slovakia is not directly involved in the conflict and regards it as Ukraine’s own struggle.
According to Fico, the most effective resolution for Ukraine is an immediate cessation of military operations. He believes the European Union should shift its role from an arms supplier to a peacemaker.
Following Fico’s announcement, the Kremlin downplayed its significance, indicating that Slovakia’s contribution to arms deliveries to Kyiv was relatively minor. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov took the opportunity to reiterate their accusation that the United States has exacerbated the conflict by aiding Ukraine.
During his address to Members of the European Parliament, Fico also made it clear that he would not support new sanctions against Russia until their impact on Slovakia had been thoroughly assessed.
Insisting that if such sanctions were detrimental to Slovakia, as is often the case, there would be no justification for supporting them.
