Slovakia Refuses to Support Ukraine, Calls for Urgent Economic Measures

Amid growing tensions in Europe, Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico recently declared his intention to oppose any initiative that would provide further support for Ukraine. His stance comes ahead of a crucial meeting of the Council of the European Union scheduled for October 23.

Fico expressed his disappointment with the continued attention Ukraine receives, saying that Slovakia wants to shift the focus to economic issues, particularly energy prices and the automotive industry. His criticism is based on the idea that the European bloc should prioritize its own economic competitiveness.

Slovakia's position on Ukraine

In his online statement, Fico revealed that he had held discussions with European Council President António Costa prior to the negotiations between EU leaders. He threatened not to support a joint declaration unless significant changes were made to the draft document.

Economic priorities over conflict

According to Fico, the Ukrainian issue shouldn't monopolize the Union's agenda. "I'm not interested in discussing new sanctions against Russia until I see clear political instructions in the summit's final document for addressing the automotive crisis and rising energy prices," he stated firmly.

Fico promised that the Slovak government will present more concrete proposals than those currently included in the draft conclusions, seeking to push for reform that could benefit the Slovak economy.

Context of the statements

The draft conclusions, developed by diplomats before the summit, reaffirm support for Ukraine in the face of Russian invasion. They emphasize the importance of ensuring Ukraine can maintain its resilience and continue to defend itself against Moscow's aggression.

Furthermore, the document also focuses on the importance of economic competitiveness, suggesting that European capitals engage in a program to reduce bureaucracy and facilitate business operations. This approach aims to create a more favorable environment for European companies by directly addressing economic challenges.

Slovakia's positions on sanctions

Slovakia has consistently resisted tightening sanctions against Russia, believing these policies to be ineffective in forcing Moscow to return to the negotiating table. Indeed, the country has exploited a temporary exemption to intensify its dependence on Russian energy supplies, further complicating its position within the European Union.

Two diplomats, who requested anonymity, said Slovakia continued to exercise its veto over the latest sanctions package against Russia, the 19th since the full-scale war began, despite other member states being close to an agreement.

Future prospects and policy challenges

Migration will be another key topic at the summit, as European governments intensify their fight against the rise of far-right politicians. The European Commission, meanwhile, has made it clear it will not give in to US pressure to overhaul environmental regulations as part of a trade deal.

Fico expressed his disappointment with the continued attention Ukraine receives, saying that Slovakia wants to shift the focus to economic issues, particularly energy prices and the automotive industry. His criticism is based on the idea that the European bloc should prioritize its own economic competitiveness.0