Slovak PM Fico calls Putin meeting 'very good'

Quick summary

Slovak PM Robert Fico met with Putin in Moscow on Victory Day and called it 'very good,' signaling Slovakia's willingness to engage with Russia despite EU pressure to isolate Moscow.

Why it matters

Slovakia's independent Russia diplomacy deepens EU divisions over sanctions and engagement strategy, potentially affecting Slovakia's alignment on energy deals, security policy, and bloc cohesion during a critical period of Russian aggression.

Key takeaways

• ›Fico attended Russia's Victory Day celebrations on May 9 before meeting Putin in Moscow
• ›Fico publicly characterized the Putin meeting as 'very good,' contrasting with broader EU efforts to isolate Russia
• ›The Slovak PM expects the meeting will draw significant attention and criticism from EU partners
• ›Fico's move signals divisions within the EU over how member states should engage with Russia