Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has pushed back against German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who recently suggested applying pressure on the governments of Slovakia and Hungary over their alleged pro-Russian positions.
Fico issued his response on Facebook, calling Merz’s stance “absolutely unacceptable.”
“Slovakia is not a small student that needs to be taught. Slovakia’s sovereign position does not stem from vanity, but is based on our national and state interests,” Fico wrote. “The policy of the only correct binding views is a denial of sovereignty and democracy.”
Fico expressed concern over what Merz’s rhetoric means for the future of European politics. “If you listen to these aggressive remarks, I have the impression that we are not entering good times. The words of the German Chancellor are absolutely unacceptable in today’s Europe,” he said.
His remarks came after Merz announced on Tuesday, May 26, that he intended to increase pressure on the Hungarian and Slovak governments, accusing both of siding too closely with Russia.
