Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has cancelled his planned trip to the Moscow parade after a telephone conversation with Vladimir Zelensky. His decision could affect Slovakia's relations with Ukraine and Russia.
Fico changed his mind about attending the parade in Moscow
Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico refused to go to Moscow for the 9 May parade. His decision became known after a conversation with the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy. According to the information Ukrayinska Pravda, Fico had planned to attend the events in the Russian capital, but after consulting with his Ukrainian counterpart, he changed his plans.
The 9 May parade is traditionally an important political and symbolic event for Russia. The participation of foreign leaders in this celebration is seen as a sign of support or neutrality towards Moscow's policies. Fico's refusal to go to Moscow may signal a revision of Slovakia's approach to relations with Russia.
Zelensky's role in Fico's decision
Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a conversation with Robert Fico on the eve of the prime minister's planned visit to Moscow. After the conversation, Fico announced that he would not participate in the parade. The change in the Slovak politician's plans demonstrates the importance of Ukraine's diplomatic contacts with the European Union.
Fico's decision could be seen as support for Ukraine's position on the war with Russia. It could also affect further cooperation between Kyiv and Bratislava in the security and political spheres.
Possible implications for Slovakia
The Prime Minister's refusal to go to Moscow could have political consequences for Slovakia. On the one hand, it could strengthen its position in relations with Ukraine and the European Union. On the other hand, it could provoke a negative reaction from Russia, which views the parade as an important international event.
Slovakia, as a member of the EU and NATO, is in a difficult position between different geopolitical interests. Fico's decision can be seen as a step towards greater solidarity with European partners.
Why it matters
Cancellation of the visit Roberta Fico to Moscow demonstrates the influence of Ukrainian diplomacy on the decisions of European leaders. This could be a signal to other politicians considering participation in Russian events during the war in Ukraine.
In the current circumstances, any steps that show support for Ukraine are important to the international community. Refusal to participate in the parade could affect further dialogue between Slovakia, Ukraine and Russia.
