The streets of Slovakia are filled with tens of thousands of protesters opposing Prime Minister Robert Fico's leadership, as he accuses the liberal opposition of inciting a coup. Fico's coalition faces growing dissatisfaction over his foreign policy and domestic governance.
Massive Protests Erupt in Slovakia Amid PM Fico's Coup Claims
Massive Protests Erupt in Slovakia Amid PM Fico's Coup Claims
Tens of thousands rally against Prime Minister Robert Fico's government, dismissing his warnings of an orchestrated coup.
Tens of thousands of Slovaks have taken to the streets in historic demonstrations against Prime Minister Robert Fico's government, following his alarming claim of an imminent coup attempt orchestrated by foreign provocateurs linked to the liberal opposition. Rallies unfolded across approximately 25 towns and cities, showcasing a significant increase in participation compared to earlier protests.
The protests are fueled by widespread discontent over Fico's populist-nationalist policies, which many believe are undermining crucial national institutions and Slovakia's standing in the EU and NATO. Demonstrators are particularly agitated over Fico's distancing from Ukraine and his conciliatory approach toward Russia.
Fico characterized his ambitions as a "sovereign foreign policy" catering to multiple global directions. He vehemently rejected claims that he intends to steer Slovakia away from its commitments to the European Union and NATO, asserting that such membership remains secure.
According to estimates by the Dennik N website, around 100,000 individuals participated nationwide, with at least 40,000 gathering in the capital city, Bratislava. Large crowds also appeared in cities such as Banska Bystrica and Kosice. Contrast to his forecasts of violence, the demonstrations proceeded peacefully.
On Friday, Fico warned of upcoming police actions to deport foreign "instructors" allegedly aiding the opposition in attempts to destabilize his government. He also summoned a security council meeting, citing purported intelligence that foreign elements involved in similar protests in Georgia and Ukraine are currently active in Slovakia.
The country’s domestic intelligence agency has corroborated some of Fico's assertions, although their credibility is contested due to their ties with the ruling party. Fico claimed that a recent cyber incident affecting the health insurance sector was part of a coordinated effort to undermine his administration due to his controversial stance on military support for Ukraine and outreach towards Moscow.
However, reports deemed the cyber incident a phishing attempt rather than an organized attack, indicating confusion over the actual events. Meanwhile, officials have insinuated that previous cyber disruptions may have originated from Ukraine, a claim Kyiv has strongly denied.
