Slovak Prime Minister Fico Arrives in Moscow for Talks with Putin

Meeting Between Slovakia’s Premier and Russia’s President

According to Главком: On May 9, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Fico extended congratulations to Putin on Victory Day, highlighting the holiday’s significance for both nations. The meeting took place at the Kremlin, where Putin expressed Russia’s readiness to meet Slovakia’s energy needs. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and the head of Rosatom also attended the event.

Fico was the only European leader to travel to Moscow for the May 9 celebrations, though he did not attend the parade on Red Square. Notably, Baltic states refused to allow Fico’s plane to fly through their airspace. This year’s Moscow parade lasted 45 minutes and featured no military equipment displays, consisting mainly of foot columns of cadets and service members.

Fico’s Statements and Political Context

Fico expressed satisfaction with his presence in Moscow, stating:

“It is a great honor for him to be in Moscow during the Victory Day celebrations.”

He also emphasized that

“on behalf of the government of the Slovak Republic and the Slovak delegation present here, allow me to congratulate you on the most outstanding national holiday.”

The prime minister further noted that ‘a new iron curtain appears to be emerging in Europe, but Russia and Slovakia can work toward normalizing relations.’

Fico’s meeting with Putin underscores the political isolation many European countries face due to the conflict in Ukraine and sanctions against Russia. Slovakia, in particular, is showing a willingness to restore dialogue with Moscow, which could shape its foreign policy within the European Union. As the sole European leader at the celebration, Slovakia’s premier may open new avenues for cooperation, despite negative reactions from neighboring countries and the broader international community.

This report is based on information from Glavcom and the Slovak publication Aktuality. Russian media also quoted Fico’s remarks. According to media sources, the meeting occurred amid a tense political climate in Europe.

Fico's visit has sparked discussions about his controversial stance within the EU, where he has been labeled an outlier. For a deeper insight into his self-identification as the "black sheep" of Europe and the implications of his actions, read more about it here.