Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has announced that he will not participate in the annual military parade in Moscow commemorating the end of World War II. Instead, he plans to lay flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
This decision was reported by the Slovak publication Denník N. Fico stated that prior to his trip to Russia, he will visit Munich, where he intends to tour the former Nazi concentration camp at Dachau.
On April 23 and 24, the Prime Minister will attend an informal summit in Cyprus focused on international policy and strengthening the European Union. Following this, the Slovak government is scheduled to hold an off-site meeting near the town of Ružomberok. Health permitting, Fico aims to work a night shift from April 30 to May 1. His party, Smer, will host celebratory events in the town of Bánovce nad Bebravou on Labor Day.
On April 19, Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna stated that Estonia would not permit the use of its airspace to strengthen ties with Russia amid ongoing violations of international norms and aggression against Ukraine and European security. He noted that Estonia has a unified procedure for EU and NATO countries regarding flight and landing permissions during official visits, but this does not apply to travel to Russia.
Fico had previously indicated plans to visit Moscow on May 9, coinciding with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations. However, European leaders have repeatedly urged caution regarding participation in these events.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico will not attend the Moscow Victory Day parade, opting instead to honor the Unknown Soldier. His decision reflects broader tensions in Europe regarding relations with Russia amid ongoing aggression in Ukraine.