The Prime Minister of Slovakia, Robert Fico, stated that he does not plan to step down from his position despite large-scale protests sweeping the country. Approximately 60,000 people gathered in the capital, Bratislava, to voice their opposition to the government's pro-Russian policies.
This information was reported by Dennik N.
Fico emphasized that any change in government can only occur through elections. However, he did not rule out the possibility of early voting, although he referred to it merely as a "technical solution" rather than an optimal political outcome.
Coalition Crisis and Threat of No Confidence Vote
The coalition parties have lost their majority in parliament following the expulsion of two deputies from the "Voice" party faction. The coalition now holds 74 seats, while the opposition has 76. This increases the chances for opposition forces ahead of the confidence vote for the government.
On January 14, all Slovak opposition parties united, announcing that they would seek Fico's resignation. They accuse the Prime Minister of ignoring issues related to managing the country and collaborating with dictatorial regimes.
On December 22, 2024, Robert Fico met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow to discuss Ukraine's decision to halt the transit of Russian gas. According to Reuters, Putin promised to ensure gas supplies to Slovakia through alternative routes.
After the visit to Moscow, the Prime Minister took a vacation in Vietnam, where, according to media reports, he stayed at the luxurious Capella Hanoi hotel, with accommodation costs exceeding €6,000 per night.
Protests continue, and the Slovak opposition is preparing for a decisive vote on the no-confidence motion.