German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed deep regret over Slovak Prime Minister Robe Fico’s attendance at Moscow’s Victory Day celebrations, stating it does not align with the European Union’s common position.
Merz’s Statement in Stockholm
Speaking at a press conference in Stockholm on Saturday, Merz highlighted the contrast between Fico’s actions and Europe Day observances. “We will talk with him about this day in Moscow today,” Merz said. “We are celebrating Europe Day here in Stockholm today. And this is something completely different.”
Russian Foreign Ministry Response
Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, countered Merz’s criticism by emphasizing the Soviet Union’s pivotal role in defeating Nazi Germany. In an interview, she declared, “There would be no Europe Day without the victory of the Soviet people. There would only be one vast concentration camp with gas chambers.”
Zakharova fuher noted that European Union nations persist in patterns reminiscent of past oppression despite effos to prevent it.
Fico’s Defiant Trip
Fico, a vocal critic of EU policies toward Moscow including military aid to Ukraine and anti-Russian sanctions, became the sole EU leader to attend the Victory Day events in person. Despite Lithuania and Latvia denying his aircraft access to their airspace, Fico proceeded to honor those who liberated Slovakia from Nazi occupation during World War II.
Post-Ceremony Meetings
Following the commemorations, Fico engaged in discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandr Novak, and presidential aide Yury Ushakov.
Putin commended Fico’s firm commitment to historical accuracy regarding World War II events and the Red Army’s liberation of Europe from Nazism. He also acknowledged the contributions of Slovak resistance fighters and expressed gratitude for Slovakia’s maintenance of Soviet war memorials and burial sites. Officials anticipate the soon opening of a Red Army military cemetery in Michalovce.
