BRATISLAVA: In a significant political shift, Slovakia’s parliamentary elections have been won by the populist Smer-SD party, led by former prime minister Robert Fico. With 23 percent of the votes, Smer-SD outpaced the centrist Progressive Slovakia, which secured 18 percent. The election results have raised concerns both domestically and internationally due to Smer-SD’s stance on halting military aid to Ukraine, its criticism of the EU and NATO, and its inclination towards closer ties with Russia.
Addressing the media on Sunday, Fico emphasized the pressing issues facing Slovakia, stating, “Slovakia and the people in Slovakia have bigger problems than (dealing with) Ukraine,” and called for peace talks to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Fico, known for his opposition to sending military support to Ukraine, has also advocated for improved relations with Russia, aligning himself with the foreign policy approach of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
Slovak President Zuzana Caputova, a political rival of Fico, is expected to task him with forming a new government. Caputova, a former member of Progressive Slovakia, has been critical of policies that advocate ceasing aid to Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of continued support for the country.
Expected Shift in Slovakia’s Foreign Policy
Fico’s victory has led analysts to anticipate a shift in Slovakia’s foreign policy, possibly aligning more closely with Hungary’s controversial leader, Viktor Orban. Orban, known for his Eurosceptic and anti-migration stance, has frequently clashed with the EU over rule-of-law issues, resembling the direction Fico might take Slovakia.
The rise of Smer-SD in Slovakia has also raised concerns about a potential diversion from the European Union, increased alignment with Russia, and restrictions on journalists’ rights and freedoms. Slovakia, historically supportive of Ukraine, is among Europe’s most significant donors to the country relative to its economic size.
Slovakia, since its independence in 1993, has maintained a delicate balance between its European ties and potential influences from Russia. The outcome of these elections suggests a potential shift in this equilibrium, leading to heightened scrutiny both domestically and internationally.
