Slovakia's New Government Survives Confidence Vote

Prime Minister Robert Fico's Return Could Signal Major Shift in Country's Foreign Policy

Robert Fico, known for his pro-Russian stance and criticism of Ukraine, has returned to power as Slovakia's Prime Minister for the fourth time.
Fico's government survived a mandatory confidence vote in Parliament, with 78 out of 143 lawmakers voting in favor.
Fico's return could signal a significant shift in Slovakia's foreign policy, as he has ended the country's military aid to Ukraine and opposes EU sanctions on Russia.
Fico has also vowed to pursue a 'sovereign' foreign policy, take a tough stance against migration and NGOs, and campaign against LGBTQ+ rights.
Under Fico's leadership, some elite investigators and police officials dealing with corruption cases have been ordered to stay at home or dismissed, and the government plans to ease punishment for corruption.