Thousands of Slovaks took to the streets in Bratislava and several other cities on Friday, voicing anger over Prime Minister Robert Fico’s controversial trip to Moscow to attend Victory Day celebrations.
Fico is the only EU leader to participate in Russia’s commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany’s defeat—an event overshadowed by Moscow’s ongoing war in Ukraine and its international isolation under EU sanctions.
Protesters filled Freedom Square in the Slovak capital, chanting slogans such as:
“We’ve had enough of Fico,” “Slovakia belongs to Europe,” and “Stay there!”
Organizers emphasized that Fico does not represent all Slovaks.
“This is a disgrace for Slovakia and one of the darkest moments in our foreign policy,” said Michal Šimečka, leader of the pro-Western Progressive Slovakia party.
In a video message from Moscow, Fico claimed his goal was to build “normal, friendly cooperation” with Russia.
His trip reignited domestic anger, following his December 2024 visit to negotiate gas supplies with Russian President Vladimir Putin—a move that also sparked nationwide demonstrations.
Fico’s pro-Russian stance and opposition to EU policies on Ukraine have made him a divisive figure both domestically and internationally. He returned to power in 2023, leading his left-wing SMER party to victory after a campaign rooted in pro-Russia and anti-American rhetoric.
