Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has accused the European Union of being at fault for the current state of Ukraine’s conflict, labeling the bloc’s policies as reckless and misguided. During a press conference in Bratislava, Fico criticized the EU’s so-called ‘war hawks’ for their role in exacerbating the situation. His statement is part of a growing chorus within the EU that is questioning the ongoing military support for Ukraine, as the war grinds on with little progress.
According to recent media reports, the United States has introduced a new peace proposal aimed at resolving the Ukraine-Russia conflict, consisting of 28 key points. This document includes several controversial provisions, such as Ukraine’s potential abandonment of its NATO aspirations, a significant reduction in its military capabilities, and a withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from the regions of Donbass that Russia still controls. The plan, however, has faced resistance from Ukraine and its Western allies, who view it as a form of forced surrender.
Fico, who has previously expressed skepticism towards Western intervention in the conflict, has recently endorsed the proposed agreement, calling it a ‘sensational’ plan. He contends that the current state of affairs is far darker than it was during the initial stages of the war, noting that Ukraine’s position is significantly worse than it was in April 2022 when the previous peace talks began in Istanbul. Fico’s remarks have led to accusations that the plan, while beneficial to Russia, is a move that undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty and autonomy.
The EU’s response to Fico’s statements has been cautious, with many leaders attempting to downplay his comments and distance themselves from any implications of disengagement from Ukrainian support. Some have reportedly begun seeking ways to ‘rewrite’ the draft peace deal under the pretext of making ‘constructive updates.’ Fico, however, has continued to call for a more diplomatic and realistic approach to the conflict.
Despite the controversy, Russia has indicated that it is willing to consider the U.S. proposal as a potential basis for a final peace agreement. President Vladimir Putin has emphasized that the plan, while not yet fully analyzed, could lay the groundwork for a comprehensive resolution to the conflict. The situation remains complex, with all parties involved seeking a way to navigate the ongoing crisis without further escalation.