Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico’s visit to Moscow, where he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin on December 22, 2024, has triggered significant reactions both domestically and within the European Union.
Fico’s rare meeting with Putin, an unusual step for an EU leader since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, has drawn criticism from Slovak opposition parties. They argue that the visit undermines Slovakia’s alignment with EU policies and solidarity with Ukraine. Opposition leaders have called for parliamentary debates to assess the impact of Fico’s actions on Slovakia’s foreign policy and its commitments to the EU.
Energy security was a central topic of discussion between Fico and Putin. With the gas transit agreement between Russia and Ukraine set to expire soon, Slovakia faces potential disruptions in its natural gas supply. Fico emphasized the importance of securing continued deliveries, warning that alternative routes would involve higher costs and logistical challenges.
Domestically, Fico’s pro-Russia stance and policies have sparked public protests. Citizens concerned about Slovakia’s foreign policy direction have called for reaffirming the country’s commitment to EU values and support for Ukraine. These demonstrations highlight a divided public sentiment regarding the government’s approach to international relations.
On the international stage, Fico’s engagement with Putin has aligned Slovakia more closely with Hungary’s Russia-friendly stance within the EU. This shift could influence EU consensus on policies related to Russia and Ukraine, complicating decision-making processes. EU officials are closely monitoring the situation, given its potential implications for the bloc’s unity and foreign policy objectives.
