Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has unleashed sharp criticism against Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, labeling him a “beggar and blackmailer” during a heated session of Slovakia’s parliament. The comments came as tensions between Bratislava and Kiev escalated following Ukraine’s decision to terminate its transit contract with Russia’s Gazprom, which has significant implications for Slovakia’s energy security.

Speaking before the Slovak parliament’s foreign affairs committee on January 10, Fico expressed frustration with Zelensky’s frequent appeals for international financial aid. “He roams Europe begging and blackmailing, asking others for money,” Fico stated bluntly, adding, “This needs to stop.” His remarks underscored his broader disapproval of the West’s continued military and financial support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Fico, who returned to power in 2023, has consistently advocated for a diplomatic resolution to the Ukraine-Russia conflict, arguing that Ukraine cannot achieve a military victory against Russia. Upon assuming office, he immediately halted Slovakia’s military aid to Ukraine and declared his intention to veto any efforts to admit Ukraine into NATO. His stance diverges sharply from the broader EU consensus and has placed him at odds with many European leaders who continue to back Zelensky’s administration.

Already strained relations between Slovakia and Ukraine worsened significantly after Ukraine’s refusal to renew its gas transit agreement with Gazprom beyond 2024. This decision effectively cut off the flow of Russian natural gas to Slovakia, as well as other EU nations like Austria and Italy. Slovakia, a........

© Blitz