Putin reportedly ready to meet Zelenskyy anywhere, says Slovak PM Fico

Fico said that during his meeting with the Slovak premier, Putin stated he was ready to meet Zelenskyy "anywhere." However, Fico acknowledged that such a meeting would not bring "much political benefit," suggesting that Russians would not view it favorably.

Slovak Prime Minister added that both Zelenskyy and Putin understood that, despite the potential political damage, they needed to meet and discuss issues. If they did not, the war would continue.

Fico supports Russian propaganda

Among other things, Fico echoed the Russian narrative that Moscow supposedly needs security guarantees. He also endorsed another line of Russian propaganda, claiming there is "discrimination against the Russian-speaking population," and argued that the war is more complicated than it seems.

Fico further stated that relations with Russia need to be normalized after the war ends. He proposed restoring international cooperation with Moscow.

Ukraine will not join NATO but aims for the EU

While Fico rejected the possibility of Ukraine joining NATO, he said Slovakia supports Kyiv's accession to the European Union. He immediately cautioned, however, that this would be a "long path."

He noted that the obstacles would come from the major EU states, with which Zelenskyy would need to negotiate. Fico did not mention pro-Russian Hungary.

Zelenskyy and Putin meeting

On September 3, Putin said he does not rule out a meeting with Zelenskyy. He added that the Ukrainian leader would have to travel to Moscow if he is ready for the meeting.

In response, on September 5, President Zelenskyy rejected Putin's offer to come to Moscow for negotiations on a diplomatic resolution to the war in Ukraine. Instead, he invited Putin to come to Kyiv.