**Ukraine Responds to Slovak PM’s Anti-Ukrainian Remarks Ahead of Moscow Visit**
In a statement, the Ukrainian Embassy in Slovakia has condemned what it calls “anti-Ukrainian” remarks made by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. The embassy urged Slovak officials to carefully study and analyze President Volodymyr Zelensky’s statements, which had warned that Russia might stage provocations during its Victory Day parade in Moscow on May 9.
Fico, who plans to attend the Russian celebration, had earlier denounced Zelensky for “threatening” foreign delegations. However, the Ukrainian Embassy says that Zelensky had only warned about potential provocations and could not guarantee the safety of visiting officials.
“This is a deeply regrettable move by Prime Minister Fico,” said Oksana Markarova, Ukraine’s ambassador to the US. “It’s especially concerning given Russia’s ongoing aggression against our country.”
The embassy also pushed back against Fico’s calls for a ceasefire timed with the WWII anniversary, noting that Ukraine had already agreed to a full ceasefire on March 11. However, Russia has constantly rejected this option and instead offered a short truce for three days.
This is not the first time Fico has made pro-Russian comments. As a populist leader, he has often been at odds with Ukraine’s pro-Western stance. His attendance at Russia’s Victory Day celebration has sparked concerns among EU leaders, who are urging him to reconsider his decision.
Meanwhile, President Zelensky has invited senior EU leaders and officials to Kyiv on May 9 to counter Russia’s celebration. The move is seen as an effort to showcase Ukraine’s own victory over Nazism during World War II, with millions of Ukrainians fighting against the Nazi regime.
**Key Developments**
* Ukrainian Embassy condemns Slovak PM Fico’s anti-Ukrainian remarks
* Zelensky warns about potential provocations during Russia’s Victory Day parade in Moscow
* EU Defense Commissioner calls for increased investment in Ukraine’s domestic defense industry
* OPEC+ agrees to large oil production hike, despite Russian aggression against Ukraine
**Analysis**
The Ukrainian Embassy’s response to Fico’s comments highlights the ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Slovakia. As a pro-Russian leader, Fico’s attendance at Russia’s Victory Day celebration is seen as a move that undermines EU unity on Ukraine.
Meanwhile, President Zelensky’s invitation to senior EU leaders to Kyiv on May 9 underscores Ukraine’s efforts to counter Russia’s narrative on World War II. By showcasing Ukraine’s own victory over Nazism, the country aims to strengthen its ties with the West and demonstrate its commitment to European values.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, it remains to be seen how EU leaders will respond to Fico’s decision to attend Russia’s Victory Day celebration. One thing is certain: Ukraine will continue to push back against Russia’s aggression and promote its own narrative on World War II.
