Fico plans Moscow visit May 9 despite EU warnings

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has announced his intention to attend the Victory Day parade in Moscow on May 9, defying warnings from the European Union's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, who called for EU leaders to boycott the event in solidarity with Ukraine. Fico described Kallas's admonitions as 'disrespectful' and asserted his sovereignty as a leader, emphasizing that he will honor the Red Army soldiers who liberated Slovakia during World War II. The visit is particularly contentious given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with Kallas stating that participation would not be viewed lightly by the EU. Fico's government has faced backlash domestically for its pro-Moscow stance, including protests against his policies. He argued for a broader discussion on democracy within the EU, citing perceived interferences in member states' sovereignty. This year's parade marks the 80th anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany, but global attendance has significantly declined since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.