BRATISLAVA, Slovakia — On Friday, a significant number of individuals gathered in squares and streets throughout Slovakia to express their opposition to the pro-Russian policies of populist Prime Minister Robert Fico. This surge of anti-government protests was largely ignited by Fico’s recent visit to Moscow where he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking a rare encounter between a European Union leader and the Kremlin since Russia commenced its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022.
Demonstrators were particularly outraged by Fico’s recent comments suggesting potential shifts in Slovakia’s foreign policy, including a departure from the European Union and NATO. Protesters in Bratislava chanted slogans such as “Slovakia is not Russia, Slovakia is Europe,” and “We have had enough of Fico,” calling for his resignation.
The protests unfolded across 28 locations nationwide, more than double that of two weeks prior, reflecting rising tensions following Fico’s allegations against rally organizers and the opposition. Earlier in the week, Fico claimed that unfounded foreign influences were attempting to orchestrate a coup in Slovakia. He based this assertion on a classified report from Slovakia’s intelligence agency, known as SIS, which he presented in parliament on Tuesday. Although the details of the report remain undisclosed, Fico suggested that the opposition was plotting to seize government buildings, disrupt traffic, initiate a nationwide strike, and instigate confrontations with law enforcement.
Slovak officials acknowledged the gravity of the situation, but the opposition vehemently dismissed the allegations and accused SIS of being manipulated for political ends. Notably, SIS is headed by the son of a close associate of Fico.
The protests, primarily organized by the group Peace for Ukraine, rejected Fico’s claims and accused the prime minister of attempting to instill fear in the Slovak populace. Importantly, all the public protests directed against Fico’s government since its inauguration on October 25, 2023, have remained peaceful. Organizers announced that attendance at the Bratislava rally reached 60,000, with plans to continue demonstrations on February 7.
Fico’s stance on Russia starkly contrasts with the prevailing views in much of Europe. Returning to power last year after his leftist party Smer (Direction) triumphed in the parliamentary elections on a platform advocating pro-Russian and anti-American sentiments, he has since halted military support to Ukraine, criticized EU sanctions against Russia, and committed to obstructing Ukraine’s NATO membership.
A polarizing figure in the Slovak political landscape, Fico faced an assassination attempt in May 2024, illustrating the high stakes of his leadership and the reactions to his controversial policies.
