Media Wire Express Correspondent
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has made a startling accusation, claiming that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attempted to bribe him to secure Slovakia’s vote in favor of Ukraine’s NATO membership.
The allegation, revealed during a press conference in Bratislava, has raised diplomatic tensions between the two nations.
According to Fico, the alleged bribery attempt occurred during recent discussions involving NATO expansion and Ukraine’s candidacy for membership. He asserted that Zelensky offered unspecified incentives in exchange for Slovakia’s support, which Fico stated he refused.
“Ukraine’s NATO membership is a critical issue, and decisions must be made transparently and based on mutual trust. Any attempts to influence these decisions through unethical means are unacceptable,” Fico declared.
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Ukraine’s government has categorically denied the allegations, with an official spokesperson for President Zelensky dismissing them as “baseless and harmful to the strong ties between Slovakia and Ukraine.” The spokesperson emphasized that Ukraine remains committed to its diplomatic approach in pursuing NATO membership, which it views as essential for national and regional security.
The accusations come at a pivotal moment for Ukraine, which has been seeking broader international support amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. Membership in NATO would significantly bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities and solidify its ties with Western allies. However, the path to membership is fraught with challenges, including the need for unanimous approval from current NATO members, such as Slovakia.
Fico, known for his critical stance toward NATO enlargement and his calls for neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, has faced criticism from pro-Ukraine factions within Slovakia. Political analysts suggest that his claims may reflect broader geopolitical maneuvering rather than a concrete attempt at bribery.
The unfolding controversy could strain Slovakia-Ukraine relations and complicate broader discussions within NATO regarding its expansion plans.
