Slovakia's Fico Rejects Any Hint of Support for Ukraine

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has rejected even the slightest suggestion of support for Ukraine, according to a morning news briefing from the Slovak daily SME. The stance underscores Fico's consistently pro-Russia position since returning to power in 2023, setting Slovakia apart from most of its European Union and NATO allies who have backed Ukraine's defense against Russia's full-scale invasion. Fico, leader of Smer-SD, a left-nationalist ruling party, has repeatedly opposed military aid to Ukraine and maintained contacts with Russian President Vladimir Putin, drawing criticism from Western partners and the Slovak opposition alike. The briefing also noted a historical contrast: Slovakia did send assistance to France when that country needed help, highlighting what critics see as an inconsistency in Fico's foreign policy approach — willingness to aid Western allies in the past, but a firm refusal to support neighboring Ukraine under Russian attack.