Slovak delegation to visit Moscow following PM Fico’s trip

Slovak TV channel ta3 reported the information.

The delegation will also include members of the ruling SMER-SD party: Tibor Gašpar, Richard Glück, Adam Lučanský, and two other MPs.

According to the deputy speaker, the visit aims to restore normal relations with Russia through meetings with Russian parliamentarians and government representatives.

"Speaking in the State Duma is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s an honor for any politician. I am proud to join about 30 world leaders who have spoken there," the Slovak official stated.

In late 2017, Danko delivered a speech at a session of the Russian State Duma. He declared that Russia is an integral part of global security and called his address a "historic event."

The deputy speaker also expressed confidence that parliaments should take the first step in restoring communication after a prolonged absence of dialogue.

"Prime Minister Robert Fico initiated this dialogue, and now it is the parliament's task to develop it," Danko added.

He also mentioned the possibility of a peaceful Russian-Ukrainian summit in Bratislava. The official urged former President Zuzana Čaputová and opposition leaders to support the idea and help make it a reality by inviting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to participate. Danko expressed confidence that the international arrest warrant for Vladimir Putin would not hinder the organization of the summit.

Putin-Fico meeting

On December 22, Slovak Prime Minister Fico met with Putin. He stated that the trip to Moscow was in response to Ukraine halting the gas transit to Slovakia.

President Zelenskyy commented on the meeting, claiming that Bratislava pays for "discounts" from Russia with sovereignty or through shadow schemes.

The opposition party Freedom and Solidarity (SaS) criticized Fico for his meeting with the Russian leader. A protest rally took place in Bratislava.

Later, it was revealed that the Slovak Prosecutor General’s Office would review Fico's visit to Moscow for compliance with the law.