Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky proposed offering €500 million from frozen Russian assets to secure Slovakia's backing for Ukraine’s NATO membership. Fico stated that the alleged offer was made during private discussions in Brussels, to which he firmly responded, "Never," underscoring his opposition to Ukraine’s inclusion in NATO.
Fico labeled the prospect of Ukraine joining NATO as "completely unrealistic" and reiterated his broader skepticism about the West’s military and political support for Kyiv. The Slovak leader has argued that supplying Ukraine with weapons only serves to extend the ongoing conflict and has called for immediate peace negotiations, even if it requires Ukraine to cede territory.
The allegations emerge against a backdrop of strained relations between Slovakia and Ukraine. Key issues, such as gas transit through Ukrainian territory and broader sanctions policy, have fueled tensions. Fico has previously warned that interruptions to gas supplies from Ukraine could provoke a significant crisis between the two countries.
This incident highlights a growing divide within Europe over the approach to the conflict in Ukraine. While many NATO and EU members continue to advocate for stronger support for Kyiv, Fico has consistently pushed for pragmatic engagement, emphasizing the need for diplomacy over prolonged military intervention.
Ukrainian officials, including President Zelensky, have yet to comment on the allegations.
