Tens of thousands of Slovaks turned out in cities across the country to voice their opposition against Prime Minister Robert Fico, rejecting his allegations of a coup plot orchestrated by the liberal opposition.
Thousands Rally in Slovakia Against Fico's Government Amid Claims of Coup Plot
Thousands Rally in Slovakia Against Fico's Government Amid Claims of Coup Plot
Mass protests erupt against Prime Minister Robert Fico, with demonstrators denouncing perceived threats to democracy and alignment with Russia.
In a notable display of dissent, tens of thousands of citizens took to the streets in approximately 25 towns and cities across Slovakia, protesting against Prime Minister Robert Fico’s governance. This comes in the wake of his controversial remarks warning of a coup incited by opposition forces employing foreign provocateurs. Demonstrators expressed their dissatisfaction with Fico's administration, accusing him of undermining critical institutions, diminishing Slovakia's cultural identity, and jeopardizing the country’s ties to the European Union (EU) and NATO.
Local reports suggest around 100,000 protesters mobilized nationwide, with significant participation observed in Bratislava, where approximately 40,000 gathered. Protests also echoed in Banska Bystrica and Kosice, as citizens rallied in a show of unity against Fico’s populist-nationalist coalition, particularly criticizing his stance on Ukraine and warming relations with Moscow.
In response to the escalating protests, Fico has claimed that the opposition is engaging in a systematic attempt to destabilize his government, supported by foreign actors intent on fomenting chaos. He alleged that several foreign "instructors" were in Slovakia to aid the opposition in their efforts. Slovakia's domestic intelligence service has echoed these claims but offered limited specifics, raising skepticism among dissenters regarding its credibility, given connections to Fico’s party.
While Fico has dismissed allegations that he intends to withdraw Slovakia from the EU and NATO, the ongoing protests reflect mounting public concern over his administration's trajectory and foreign policy choices. As tensions rise, the atmosphere remains charged, with hopes for a peaceful resolution as large-scale rallies deliver a clarion call for democratic integrity.
Local reports suggest around 100,000 protesters mobilized nationwide, with significant participation observed in Bratislava, where approximately 40,000 gathered. Protests also echoed in Banska Bystrica and Kosice, as citizens rallied in a show of unity against Fico’s populist-nationalist coalition, particularly criticizing his stance on Ukraine and warming relations with Moscow.
In response to the escalating protests, Fico has claimed that the opposition is engaging in a systematic attempt to destabilize his government, supported by foreign actors intent on fomenting chaos. He alleged that several foreign "instructors" were in Slovakia to aid the opposition in their efforts. Slovakia's domestic intelligence service has echoed these claims but offered limited specifics, raising skepticism among dissenters regarding its credibility, given connections to Fico’s party.
While Fico has dismissed allegations that he intends to withdraw Slovakia from the EU and NATO, the ongoing protests reflect mounting public concern over his administration's trajectory and foreign policy choices. As tensions rise, the atmosphere remains charged, with hopes for a peaceful resolution as large-scale rallies deliver a clarion call for democratic integrity.
