Slovak PM opposes Ukraine’s NATO membership, warns of global conflict

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has firmly pledged to resist Ukraine’s accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), stating that its membership could escalate tensions and potentially lead to World War III.

In an interview with Chinese TV channel CGTN, Fico clarified that while he is not opposed to Ukraine’s integration into the European Union (EU), he strongly believes that NATO membership for Ukraine is a step too far, Caliber.Az reports.

"As long as I am the Prime Minister of Slovakia, I will voice Slovakia's position on NATO: Ukraine should not be part of NATO," Fico said, emphasizing the potential risks of such a move. "Ukraine can be part of the EU, but it absolutely cannot be part of NATO."

Fico's comments reflect growing concerns among some NATO member states about the strategic consequences of expanding the alliance further east, especially in the context of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Despite these concerns, Ukraine has consistently sought closer ties with NATO as part of its broader security strategy, particularly in the wake of Russia’s invasion in 2022.

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico’s official visit to China was to discuss China-Slovakia relations, China-Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries cooperation and China-EU relations, as well as peace and stability in the broader European region, including Slovakia's stance on the Ukraine crisis.

Fico called this trip the "visit of the year for 2024" as his delegation includes the largest-ever business groups to boost trade ties and increase investment. Fico goes into rhapsodies about Chinese lithium battery manufacturer Gotion's project in Slovakia.

"It might seem like a small investment, but for Slovakia, it's a €1.4 billion investment that will create 1,300 new jobs," he said.

By Vafa Guliyeva