Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico has sparked backlash after defiantly confirming he will attend the annual Russian military parade in Moscow on 9 May, marking the end of the Second World War. His decision comes despite strong objections from the European Union, which has warned its members against appearing in Moscow while Russia continues its full invasion of Ukraine.
Speaking during a visit to Zagreb, Fico declared, “I will go to Moscow on the 9th to pay my respects to those who died in the liberation of Slovakia and Czechoslovakia. I will pay tribute to the millions of civilian victims.” Fico, who is known for his pro-Russian leanings, dismissed the EU’s concerns as “disrespectful” and said they ignore history and the sacrifices made during World War Two.
The European Union’s foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas have openly condemned any participation by European leaders in Moscow’s 9 May parade. Kallas stated from Luxembourg, “Any participation in the 9th of May parades in Moscow will not be taken lightly on the European side, considering that Russia is waging a full scale war in Europe.”
The EU stance reflects a broader effort to isolate Russia diplomatically, particularly as Moscow continues its brutal assault on Ukraine. Fico’s decision is expected to further strain relations between Slovakia and key European allies, and it raises concerns about growing populist and pro Kremlin sentiment in some EU states.
The 9 May event in Moscow has long been used by the Kremlin to showcase military power. This year’s parade, which marks 80 years since Nazi Germany’s defeat, will likely be used by Russia’s leadership to draw false parallels between its wartime history and its current invasion of Ukraine. Many European leaders see attendance at such events as legitimising Moscow’s narrative.
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