Europe Tens of thousands demonstrate against the government in Slovakia
Tens of thousands of people have protested in almost 30 cities in Slovakia against the government of left-wing nationalist Prime Minister Robert Fico. With banners and chants, the demonstrators called on the head of government to resign. According to the organizers, 60,000 people took part in the largest rally in front of the seat of government in Bratislava.
24.01.2025, 21:39
SDA
The message was said to be: "Slovakia belongs to Europe. We do not want collaboration with Russia." This was said by Marian Kulich from the citizens' initiative "Mier Ukrajine" (Peace to Ukraine), which had called for the demonstrations together with partner organizations. In contrast to previous protests, this time the participants waved only a few Ukrainian flags, but mainly those of Slovakia and Europe.
Opponents of the government accuse Fico of pursuing an increasingly authoritarian and "pro-Russian" course. He criticized this again on Thursday as slander. "This government will never take steps that could cast doubt on our membership of the European Union and Nato."
Fico has stopped supplying weapons to Ukraine, which is under attack from Russia, from his own army stocks and frequently criticizes the EU sanctions, which he believes are more damaging to Slovakia, which is dependent on Russian gas and oil, than Moscow. Nevertheless, unlike Hungary, Slovakia has so far agreed to all EU decisions against Russia and in favor of Ukraine.
Intelligence report warns of riots
A few days ago, the head of government warned that demonstrations by government opponents could lead to riots. He referred to a report by the domestic intelligence service SIS on alleged plans to overthrow the government. According to the report, "structures with links abroad and to the Slovakian opposition" were planning attacks on government buildings and provocations. This was intended to force the police to crack down, which could then be presented as violence against peaceful demonstrators. The demonstrators criticized this report on Friday evening with several banners.
