Fico defends stance on Ukraine, says disagreements with Zelenskyy normal
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico (photo: Office of the President of Ukraine)
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico explained that his rhetoric and actions are not directed against Ukraine, since he is defending the interests of his country. As for the fact that the Prime Minister and the Ukrainian leader have different views on various issues — "that's life," Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said at a press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
"We were able to explain certain points to each other and insist on our views. On some issues we have different points of view, but that's life, such things happen in life," Fico explained.
The Slovak Prime Minister added that despite all this, there is mutual respect between him and the Ukrainian leader.
"I respect and hear the President (Zelenskyy — ed.), the President respects and hears me. Maybe sometimes it does not look that way based on what comes out in the media, but as the Prime Minister of Slovakia I want us to have good relations," he explained.
At the same time, Fico stated that Slovakia does not wish to take part in "political games" and called for respect for Bratislava's right to sovereignty in matters of foreign policy.
"One can have different views and still maintain cooperation. And I want to ask to respect Slovak views," the Prime Minister said.
Zelenskyy and Fico meeting
Slovak media reported the start of the meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico in Uzhhorod at around 15:50. It was expected that they would discuss energy infrastructure issues, including Ukrainian attacks on the Druzhba oil pipeline.
Following the meeting, President Zelenskyy said that Slovakia supports Ukraine on its path to joining the European Union. He also proposed that Slovakia become part of the security guarantees system for Ukraine.
