In Slovakia, thousands of people protested against the pro-Russian policies of the current government, urging transparency and rejecting collaboration with Russia. According to organizers, at least 15,000 people gathered in the capital, Bratislava, with more protests occurring in other cities.
The demonstrators focused their anger on Slovak Prime Minister Fico, who visited Russia last month to discuss extending a gas contract with President Putin. The contract between Russia and Ukraine expired on December 31, leading to a halt of Russian gas supply via Ukraine to Europe as of January 1.
Most European countries had reduced Russian gas imports since 2022, but Slovakia, Hungary, and Austria lagged behind. Ukraine and Russia both expressed unwillingness to renew the contract, while Fico threatened to cut electricity supplies to Ukraine, drawing criticism from Ukrainian President Zelensky.
Since taking office, Fico has ceased military aid to Ukraine and opposed its future NATO membership. Protesters called Fico a collaborator and expressed shame, while affirming Slovakia’s support for Ukraine.
Fico announced yesterday that Putin promised alternative gas supplies to Slovakia via routes like Turkey, despite limited capacity.
Source: NOS