Bratislava – Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico confirmed that his country has not joined and will not join the “Coalition of the Willing” supporting Ukraine, denying reports alleging Slovakia’s inclusion in the military bloc and emphasizing that his government has not participated in any coalition meetings.
Official Denial and Clarification with French Embassy
In a formal statement published on Facebook, Fico stated that Slovakia “was not, is not, and will not be a member of the Coalition of the Willing,” confirming that he has not attended any meetings associated with the military formation as head of government.
Fico added that he contacted the French Ambassador to Slovakia to request that the embassy refrain from circulating inaccurate information regarding Bratislava’s position. According to Fico, the ambassador acknowledged a misunderstanding and pledged to inform the public accordingly. Fico’s remarks followed a Slovak newspaper report citing the French Embassy that sparked widespread domestic debate.
Slovakia’s Foreign Policy and Moscow’s Reaction
The Coalition of the Willing comprises over 30 nations, led jointly by the United Kingdom and France, aiming to coordinate military and political support for Ukraine, including discussing potential troop deployments following a eventual peace agreement. Fico’s stance aligns with his government’s declared policy opposing expanded military involvement in the conflict and advocating political solutions over escalation.
In Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov previously criticized coalition members, labeling them “warmongers who do not want peace,” amidst ongoing Russian opposition to Western defense initiatives for Kyiv. Slovakia’s refusal highlights persistent divergence among European capitals regarding direct military and political commitments.
Slovakia’s explicit denial underlines persistent divergence among European nations regarding military commitments to Ukraine, highlighting Bratislava’s preference for political resolution over defense coalition expansion.
