Robert Fico's Remarks at the URC-2026 Conference
Speaking at the Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC-2026) held on June 25–26 in Gdańsk, Poland, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico declared that the war in Ukraine cannot be resolved through military means and can only end through negotiations. The Ukrainian delegation, led by Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, includes business leaders, state-owned company representatives, community figures, government officials, and members of parliament.
Fico emphasized, 'I believe the EU must support peace initiatives. This devastating war has no military solution and can only be ended at the negotiating table.'
He further noted that following recent discussions among European leaders, an increasing number of EU member states now back the need to intensify diplomatic efforts. 'For Slovakia, there is no better alternative than full respect for international law, which is grounded in the key provisions of the UN Charter. That is why our government consistently calls for greater diplomatic engagement,' Fico added.
Discussions on the Peace Process
The URC-2026 conference thus served as a platform for debating critical aspects of the peace process and Ukraine's reconstruction, with diplomacy and international law taking center stage.
Robert Fico's comments highlight the growing endorsement of diplomatic initiatives among European nations, signaling a shift in international policy priorities regarding the conflict in Ukraine. The broad participation of stakeholders, including businesses and civil society, at URC-2026 could mark a significant step toward a more comprehensive approach to rebuilding the country and advancing peace efforts. This also suggests a growing willingness within the European Union to take a more active role in resolving the conflict through peaceful negotiations.
As the discourse around resolving the Ukraine conflict intensifies, it's crucial to consider the insights from various analyses, including a recent piece by the Financial Times. This analysis asserts that direct negotiations represent the sole viable route to achieving peace. Such perspectives align with Prime Minister Fico's emphasis on the importance of diplomacy, underscoring the urgent need for collaborative international efforts.