Slovak Prime Minister Fico Accepts Putin’s Invitation to Moscow to Celebrate “Victory Over Nazism”

On November 27, 2024, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico confirmed that he had accepted an invitation from Russian leader Vladimir Putin to attend the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow on May 9, 2025.

In his statement, Fico emphasized the historical importance of the Red Army and the Soviet Union in defeating fascism during World War II.

He noted that Slovaks hold the liberation of their country by the Red Army in 1944-1945 in high regard, and that his government continues to support the legacy of the fight against fascism and the historical truth of World War II, including the role of the Soviet Union in the victory.

The decision has sparked criticism from the Slovak opposition, with some politicians condemning Fico’s acceptance of the invitation, drawing attention to his political alignment with Putin.

They argue that Fico’s participation in the Moscow celebrations would tarnish Slovakia’s international reputation. “No other European prime ministers, except for Fico and Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, would stand as a backdrop for Putin’s military parade,” said Michal Šipoš, head of the Slovak parliamentary club.