Slovak Premier criticizes Western ‘Iron Curtain’ in discussions with Putin
(MENAFN) Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow following his attendance at the Victory Day celebrations commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Soviet defeat of Nazi Germany.
During their meeting at the Kremlin on Friday, Fico criticized what he described as a new “Iron Curtain” being imposed by Western nations. He mocked the airspace restrictions that complicated his travel to Moscow, calling them a “childish joke.” Fico expressed determination to maintain open communication with Russia, despite increasing EU pressure.
“There is a strong push to build a new Iron Curtain,” Fico said, vowing to resist such efforts and maintain dialogue. He also reaffirmed Slovakia’s commitment to preserving Soviet World War II memorials, proposing the construction of a monument to Marshal Ivan Konev, a Soviet commander instrumental in liberating Czechoslovakia.
Putin praised Fico for working to rebuild Russian-Slovak ties, which had been strained under Slovakia’s previous government that aligned closely with EU policies. The Russian leader remarked that attempts to block Fico’s visit only proved ineffective, as the Slovak PM pursued his objectives regardless.
Fico also questioned the effectiveness of EU sanctions on Russia, arguing that they hurt the bloc more than Moscow. He stressed the importance of maintaining energy cooperation, noting Slovakia's dependence on Russian fuel for its nuclear power plants and warning that severing energy ties could destabilize the country.
The visit sparked criticism from EU leaders. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen labeled Fico’s participation in the Moscow events “regrettable,” while Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called it “unthinkable” for an EU leader to stand beside Putin on such an occasion.
In response, Fico defended his presence in Moscow as a gesture of respect for the Soviet soldiers who fought against fascism. “It was a moral duty to come here and pay tribute,” he said.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov commended both Fico and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, calling their actions heroic for standing up to Western pressure and honoring Victory Day.
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