Ukrainian Leader Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed his views on the recent meeting between Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico and Kremlin dictator Vladimir Putin in Moscow. The meeting, which took place on Monday, has sparked controversy and raised concerns among Ukrainian officials.
Zelensky, who has been a vocal critic of Russia’s actions in Ukraine, stated that he was disappointed by Fico’s decision to meet with Putin, calling it a «betrayal» to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Ukrainian leader also criticized Fico for not consulting with his Ukrainian counterparts before the meeting, calling it a «violation of diplomatic norms.»
The meeting between Fico and Putin has been seen as a significant move by the Slovakian government to strengthen ties with Russia. The two leaders discussed various economic and political issues, including the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline and potential cooperation in the energy sector.
However, Zelensky and other Ukrainian officials have raised concerns about the implications of the meeting for the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine. The Ukrainian government believes that any cooperation between Slovakia and Russia could further destabilize the region and undermine Ukraine’s efforts for peace.
Zelensky’s comments have been echoed by other Ukrainian politicians, with many calling for a strong response from the international community against Fico’s actions. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stated that the meeting was a «slap in the face» to Ukraine and called for the European Union to impose sanctions on Slovakia.
The European Union has also expressed its concerns about the meeting between Fico and Putin. EU spokesperson Peter Stano stated that the EU does not recognize Crimea as part of Russia and reiterates its support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity. The EU has called on Slovakia to uphold the principles of international law and to refrain from actions that could harm the EU’s relations with Ukraine.
The Ukrainian public has also reacted strongly to the meeting, with many taking to social media to express their disappointment and anger. #FicoBetrayedUkraine has been trending on Twitter in Ukraine, with many users calling for a boycott of Slovakian products and services.
Fico’s meeting with Putin has not only caused a stir in Ukraine but also among Slovakia’s neighbors. Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki has called on Fico to explain his actions and stated that Poland stands in solidarity with Ukraine. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis also expressed his concern and called on Slovakia to reconsider its relations with Russia.
Despite the backlash, Fico has defended his decision to meet with Putin, stating that it was a «normal and necessary step» for a neighboring country. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining good relations with both Ukraine and Russia.
In conclusion, Ukrainian Leader Zelensky’s comments on Slovakian Prime Minister Fico’s meeting with Russian dictator Putin highlight the ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia. The meeting has sparked concerns and raised questions about Slovakia’s stance on the conflict in Ukraine. The international community, including the EU, has also expressed its concerns and called on Slovakia to uphold the principles of international law. It remains to be seen how this meeting will impact the already fragile situation in the region.
