Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico Defends Sovereignty Against UK Ambassador's Criticism Over Ukraine Position

Slovakia's Prime Minister, Robert Fico, expressed strong disapproval on Friday after the UK ambassador to Bratislava criticised his interview with Russia's state-owned Rossiya 1 television. Fico stated, "Slovakia is not Britain's colony." He questioned the ambassador's right to interfere in his media activities through a video released by his office. Fico is currently visiting China.

Fico further asserted that representing a larger and more powerful nation does not justify what he termed as unacceptable behaviour from Ambassador Nigel Baker. He urged Baker to refrain from meddling in Slovakia's sovereign foreign policy. In his interview with the Russian channel, Fico criticised Western support for Ukraine, claiming it only prolongs the conflict and accusing European countries of lacking interest in a peaceful resolution.

UK Ambassador's Response

Ambassador Nigel Baker responded on X, expressing regret over Fico's decision to engage with a presenter under British and EU sanctions. Baker refuted Fico's assertion that the West is uninterested in peace, stating that the quickest path to peace would be the withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukraine.

Fico returned to power last year for the fourth time after his leftist party, Smer Direction, won parliamentary elections with a pro-Russia and anti-American stance. His views on Russia's war in Ukraine and other issues sharply contrast with mainstream European opinions. Fico has halted Slovakia's military aid to Ukraine, opposes EU sanctions on Russia, and seeks to prevent Ukraine from joining NATO.

Controversial Interview

During his interview with Russian TV, Fico expressed that attending a traditional military parade in Moscow's Red Square on May 9 next year would be an honour. This event marks the 80th anniversary of the end of WWII. The interview drew condemnation from Slovakia's opposition and politicians in neighbouring Czech Republic.

The Slovak Prime Minister's stance has sparked significant debate both domestically and internationally. His comments have highlighted the ongoing tensions between differing political ideologies within Europe regarding the conflict in Ukraine.