Fico lashes out over Zelenskyy's comment but still plans Moscow visit
Photo: Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico (Getty Images)
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico grew angry over a statement made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about security in Moscow on May 9. Still, Fico plans to attend the parade, states the Slovak outlet Sme.
Fico called Zelenskyy’s words a threat, after the Ukrainian president said that Ukraine cannot be held responsible for events in Moscow on May 9.
"It is a great sign of disrespect when someone tells a country that had the largest share in the victory over fascism and suffered the greatest losses: celebrate, and we might drop a drone on you. This has no place in modern politics," said the Slovak prime minister.
According to Fico, Zelenskyy is mistaken if he believes that his statement will lead foreign delegations to refuse to attend the parade in Moscow. He added that he is "simply going" to Moscow for the celebration.
"I am going to pay my respects and honor the nation that played a decisive role in the victory over Hitler, the nation that suffered the most," he said.
According to Slovak media, Fico will be the only EU leader to attend the parade in Moscow on May 9.
Parade in Moscow on May 9
As a reminder, a large parade will take place in Moscow on May 9 for Victory Day. Dictator Vladimir Putin invited several European leaders to the parade. Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić had announced they would attend.
However, on May 3, it was reported that Vučić had to urgently cut short his visit to the United States due to illness. It remains unclear whether he will attend the parade.
Slovak media have also reported that Fico has health issues. In addition, Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh will not attend the parade.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is not responsible for any events that may occur in Russia on May 9.
