Slovakia's New Prime Minister Robert Fico to Halt Military Aid to Ukraine, Adds Strain to EU-NATO Relations

Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico, in his first major act since winning last month's parliamentary election, halts military aid to Ukraine and resists EU sanctions on Russia, adding tension in EU-NATO relations and raising concerns of growing pro-Russia sentiment.

Slovakia's newly elected Prime Minister, Robert Fico, announced that the country would halt military aid to Ukraine, following through on his campaign promises to push for negotiations with Moscow and an immediate end to Kremlin's war.
While the decision is not expected to have a major impact on the war due to Slovakia's limited share in weapons supply, the move raises concerns about growing pro-Russia sentiment and could strain EU-NATO relations.
Despite being one of the smallest nations in NATO and the EU, Slovakia's unanimous decision-making process within these blocs allows it to wield significant influence, potentially amplifying the impact of this decision.
Fico's decision mirrors the stance of Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban, sparking fears that Slovakia will also oppose the EU's ongoing measures against Russia.
Before Fico's election, Slovakia had been a staunch supporter of Ukraine, providing significant military aid, including ammunition, armored vehicles, artillery pieces, and fighter jets.