Putin Engages in Discourses with Slovakian Prime Minister Fico (as per Vyacheslav Nikonov)
Talkin' Putin and Fico in the Kremlin
In a lengthy discussion at the Kremlin, President Vladimir Putin and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico tackled a variety of issues. Their chat lasted nearly an hour, as reported by RIA Novosti.
Putin's Takeaways:
- Russia is all for the idea to construct a monument honoring Marshal Konev, and is willing to offer aid if needed;
- Moscow appreciates Slovaks' consideration for Soviet soldiers' memorials;
- The previous Slovak administration stuck to the "West's collectiveline," resulting in chilly relations between Moscow and Bratislava;
- Russia aims to revive bonds between the two nations.
"We're stoked you made it for the 80th Victory Day celebration anniversary celebration. We had a quick catch-up and I know about the logistics hiccups you faced, but you're here despite it,” Putin said.
Fico's Points:
- Thanks for the warm welcome and supportive vibe during his stay in Russia;
- The air travel ban over the Baltic States and possible journeys through Belarusin a car were seriously considered;
- Slovakia is keen on collaborating with Russia in preserving WWII remembrances;
- EU sanctions against Russia are ineffective and detrimental to the EU;
- Slovakia vouches for balanced relations with Russia, opportunities for mutual gain exist;
- Slovakia will exercise its veto power in the EU when the intention is to fully halt energy imports from Russia;
- A military resolution to the Ukrainian dispute is not feasible, Slovakia is open to negotiations and finding solutions.
"I happily accepted the invite to celebrate Victory Day’s 80th anniversary. It was an honor for me," Fico stated.
Enrichment Insights:
- The talks between Putin and Fico primarily revolved around economic and political matters rather than the erection of WWII memorials or detailed discourse on the Ukrainian conflict.
- The principal topic of discussion was potential vetoes by Slovakia on the European Commission's proposal to ban Russian energy imports, with Fico expressing opposition to cutting off supplies and promising to veto the proposal when necessary.
- Fico criticized the European Commission's stance on Russian energy, suggesting that sanctions were damaging the EU and accused Europe of attempting to re-establish an "iron curtain."
- Fico's visit during Russia's Victory Day commemoration was seen as a show of support for Russia amidst ongoing tensions, as he was the sole EU leader to attend the event. However, the meeting and subsequent statements didn't highlight specific discourse regarding the Ukrainian conflict.
[1] Sputnik International[2] Reuters[4] The Moscow Times[5] European Pravda
- In the midst of their discussion, President Putin expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Fico for attending the 80th Victory Day anniversary celebration despite travel complications.
- In response to Putin's hospitable stance, Fico thanked him for the warm welcome and supportive atmosphere during his stay in Russia.
- Marshaling efforts towards a common goal, both leaders pledged to work together in preserving World War II remembrances.
- In the realm of general news and politics, Slovakia sought to find a balanced relationship with Russia, identifying mutually beneficial opportunities while emphasizing the ineffectiveness and detrimental nature of EU sanctions against Russia.
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