Putin, Fico discuss restoring frozen ties, nuclear cooperation in Moscow

​​​​​​​By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - Russian President Vladimir Putin met Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico at the Kremlin on Friday to discuss relations and cooperation in energy and diplomacy.

Putin thanked Fico for attending Victory Day commemorations in Moscow and welcomed Slovakia’s initiative to honor Marshal Ivan Konev, pledging support for a planned monument for the Russian military leader who led the Red Army on the Eastern Front during WWII.

“We certainly appreciate your decision to come celebrate the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War,” said Putin, noting obstacles Fico faced en route to Russia.

Putin claimed that under previous Slovak governments aligned with the “collective West,” ties between Moscow and Bratislava had frozen, but he said, “Russia will do everything necessary to restore relations.”

Fico expressed gratitude for the Kremlin’s hospitality and said Slovakia remained committed to preserving Soviet-era monuments.

“I had no dilemma after receiving the invitation. It was an honor for me,” he stated.

He criticized EU sanctions on Moscow as ineffective and damaging to European economies. Fico added that Slovakia seeks normal relations with Russia and opposes halting cooperation in peaceful nuclear energy.

“There is no military solution to the Ukrainian conflict,” he said, supporting negotiations and peaceful efforts to resolve the war with Ukraine.

Fico attended Russia’s Victory Day parade in Red Square alongside other foreign leaders.

He arrived Thursday in Moscow.