Fico spoke out against the idea of erecting a new "iron curtain" in Europe

Slovakia opposes the construction of an "iron curtain" against Russia by European countries. This was announced on May 9 by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico during talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin.

"I do not support the idea of a new iron curtain, and we will do everything to make sure that we shake hands with each other through this [possible] curtain," Fico said.

He added that because of this, it was difficult for him to come to Moscow for the Victory Day Parade.

In addition, the Slovak Prime Minister clarified that he had no doubts about accepting the invitation from the Russian side to visit Moscow to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War (WWII). He also noted Slovakia's willingness to cooperate with the Russian Federation on the issue of preserving WWII monuments.

"The Slovak government is interested in cooperating with you in preserving all monuments and cemeteries related to World War II and liberation," the prime minister said.

Fico also said that Slovakia intends to cooperate with Russia and is interested in normal bilateral relations between the two countries. According to him, the parties should not stop cooperation in the field of peaceful atom.

In addition, he added that during the conversation with the President of the Russian Federation, they raised the issue of banning the supply of Russian energy resources to Europe. Fico stated that Slovakia uses the right of veto on this ban.

The prime minister also said that European sanctions against Russia are not working. In his opinion, they only harm the countries of the European Union (EU).

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At a meeting with Fico in the Kremlin on May 9, Putin announced that Russia would do everything necessary to restore relations with Slovakia. He noted that in recent years, ties between Russia and Slovakia have been frozen due to the actions of the Slovak authorities and their adherence to the line of the "collective West." Putin also thanked Fico for coming to Moscow, despite the difficulties that had arisen.