Slovakia rises: Tens of thousands protest against pro‑Russia ties
Slovaks flocked to the streets of Bratislava to demonstrate their opposition to Prime Minister Robert Fico's stance. People demanded a change in foreign policy and an end to cooperation with Russia.
On Friday, in front of the government headquarters in Bratislava, approximately 15,000 people gathered to express their opposition to Prime Minister Robert Fico's policies. Protesters held banners with slogans such as "enough Fico," "betrayal of the homeland," and "We will not give up Slovakia."
The protest began with an air raid siren, symbolising the ongoing war in Ukraine. An open letter was read aloud. The same text that the demonstrators gathered in Bratislava heard was also read in 13 other cities across Slovakia.
Slovakia is rebelling. People do not want government cooperation with Vladimir Putin
The letter emphasises the consequences for the country of actions taken by Prime Minister Fico. It mentions the threat to the country's freedom and democratic values and the weakening of alliances with the EU and NATO.
The letter also recalled the protests' slogan: "We are Slovakia. We are Europe." The event was attended by over 15,000 people.
The organisers of the demonstration, the "Peace for Ukraine" initiative, also criticised Prime Minister Fico's visit to Moscow and his meeting with Vladimir Putin. They declared support for Ukraine and announced a trip to Kyiv as a gesture of solidarity.
Earlier on Friday, during a session of Slovakia's parliamentary committee on European affairs, Robert Fico reported on his visit to Moscow, which took place on December 22. He stated that he received a promise from Vladimir Putin that Russia would fulfil its gas commitments to Bratislava.
Fico also attacked Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, accusing him of lying and acting to Slovakia's detriment.
