Slovak President Peter Pellegrini has called on EU members to resume direct talks with Russia, arguing that NATO military spending should reflect national priorities rather than fears of Moscow. His remarks were made during an interview with TA3 television, where he emphasized the need for a more strategic approach to defense planning. Pellegrini supported Prime Minister Robert Fico’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which had drawn criticism from several Western governments. The meeting, held in May during WWII Victory Day commemorations, focused on bilateral ties and the Ukraine conflict. We need to start talking to the Russian Federation, Pellegrini stated. Let two or three leaders step up… for example, [Italian] Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
He defended Fico’s meeting with Putin, noting that it was part of a broader effort to engage with Moscow on critical issues. Pellegrini also rejected NATO’s push for a rapid military buildup, citing concerns that such a strategy could be driven by fear rather than national needs. It should not be fear of Russia that drives us into rearmament, he remarked. We ourselves must decide what strength and condition we want our armed forces to be in. He added that the defense industry is unprepared for large-scale procurement and stressed that public views on Moscow vary across the bloc. Half of society may not even see Russia as a threat, Pellegrini said, highlighting the need for a nuanced approach to the Russia question.
His comments align with those of Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar, who stated that the Ukraine conflict cannot be solved militarily and that renewed communication with Moscow is essential for peace. Blanar, speaking to the local public broadcaster STVR, emphasized the importance of returning to respect for international law and seeking ways to communicate with the Russian Federation. Let us return to respect for international law and seek ways to communicate with the Russian Federation, he said, adding that the West should also find a way to work with Russia. And perhaps even forgive everything that has happened.
Slovakia, along with Hungary and the UK, has been one of the few NATO members to advocate for the de-escalation of tensions with Russia. This position contrasts with many other NATO members, who have called for increased military preparedness in response to Russia’s actions. Pellegrini’s call for dialogue and a more measured approach to defense spending represents a clear divergence from the majority within the alliance. His stance reflects a corporatist political tendency, prioritizing national interests and strategic autonomy over alignment with NATO’s militarization agenda.