Unfortunate news for Kyiv. They've lost an ally

The new Slovak Prime Minister, Robert Fico, has confirmed earlier assertions that he has no intention of militarily supporting Ukraine. "If someone views our reluctance to send weapons to Ukraine as a crime, then so be it," Fico stated. During his visit to Prague, he argued that the conflict in Ukraine had reached an impasse, and the sanctions policy against Russia was ineffective. He added that given these circumstances, his country stands behind peace negotiations.

In keeping with tradition, the head of the Slovak government made his first international visit to Prague after being established after the elections on September 30. Fico reiterated his stance that the conflict in Ukraine was at a standstill, and the sanctions policy against Russia was failing. He emphasized that Slovakia encourages peace talks.

Fico stressed that he respects the decisions made by the Czech Republic and other countries to provide military assistance to Ukraine. However, he clarified that he doesn't intend to offer support in the same manner. "If someone views our reluctance to send weapons to Ukraine as a crime, then so be it," he affirmed.

The Prime Minister neither recognized nor acknowledged the differences between Prague and Bratislava as a conflict of values. Conversely, he strongly asserted that Russia's aggression against Ukraine is a violation of international law. Fico also disclosed plans for a phone conversation with Ukraine's Prime Minister to discuss potential humanitarian aid, including the provision of portable heat-generation devices and assistance in de-mining Ukrainian territory.

Czech Prime Minister, Petr Fiala, underscored the importance of Slovakia's backing of the European Union's unified stance on the Ukrainian conflict. "We undoubtedly hold different views on various issues, particularly related to international politics. Nevertheless, it doesn't impede our collaboration on several specific matters," Fiala noted.

According to both sides, possible cooperation could be seen within the Visegrad Group, composed of the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, and Hungary. Fiala confirmed his willingness to convene a meeting of Visegrad Group Prime Ministers following the inauguration of the new Polish government.

Statements were also made in Prague reflecting a shared stand by Czech Republic and Slovakia on the veto of EU member states. Fiala opined that it's vital to refrain from merging discussions on potential treaty reforms with debates concerning EU expansion.