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Slovakia Launches Criminal Probe Into Ex-Defense Minister Over Ukraine Military Aid

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Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko
Dariia Mykhailenko
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Slovakia Launches Criminal Probe Into Ex-Defense Minister Over Ukraine Military Aid
Former Minister of Defense of Slovakia Jaroslav Na is seen at the Bucharest Nine group meeting in Warsaw, Poland on 26 April, 2023. (Source: Getty Images)

Slovak police have launched a criminal investigation into the previous government's transfer of military aid to Ukraine, attempting to detain former Defense Minister Jaroslav Naď and other ex-officials,

This was reported by Reuters on June 18, citing local media.

The former minister, currently abroad on vacation, confirmed he is in Canada and denies any wrongdoing. Speaking to media on June 18, Naď defended his actions and reiterated his support for Ukraine.

“Today's theatre honestly did not surprise or bother me.I will keep repeating to myself how proud I am of how we helped Ukraine. I would do it again. And again,” he wrote on Facebook, adding that he plans to return to Slovakia by the end of the month.

Meanwhile, according ro Reuters, Slovak authorities confirmed the detention of the former head of the state-owned defense company. The country’s law enforcement agencies noted that the actions were part of a criminal probe initiated by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office. However, no further details were provided.

Interior Minister Matúš Šutaj Eštok confirmed the investigation is being led by a team focused on the previous administration’s transfer of ammunition to Ukraine.

Earlier, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico stated that Slovakia would withhold support for the European Union’s 18th sanctions package against Russia unless the European Commission presents a credible plan to ensure the country’s energy security.

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