Ukraine Disheartened by Slovak PM's Allegations of Fascist Elements in Military

Ukraine expressed disappointment over claims by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico that Ukraine needs to remove fascist elements from its military. The statement echoed Russian arguments used to justify the 2022 invasion. These remarks complicate Ukraine's aspirations to join NATO and the EU.

Ukraine on Monday expressed disappointment at allegations by Slovakia's pro-Russian prime minister that Kyiv should act to remove from its military ranks what he described as fascist elements within the Ukrainian military. Fico's appeal mirrored Russian arguments used to justify its war against Ukraine, including the Kremlin's contention that its 2022 invasion sought to 'denazify' its smaller neighbour.

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry voiced its dismay, stating, 'In Kyiv, there is disappointment regarding the statement made by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico towards Ukrainian soldiers, which goes against the existing level of trust and cooperation between Ukraine and Slovakia.'

Fico's comments are significant as Russia routinely labels Ukraine's leaders as Nazis. President Vladimir Putin cited this supposed need to rid the country of Nazis from the onset of the invasion in February 2022. Fico's support for this narrative as a NATO leader complicates Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's continuous appeals for long-range weaponry from the Alliance and permission to use it against Russian territory. This controversy arises as Ukraine continues its efforts to join the European Union and NATO, facing opposition primarily from Fico and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.

(With inputs from agencies.)