**Slovakia’s President Backs Protests Against Government**
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has shown support for protests against Slovakia’s government. On January 25, he wrote on social media that “Bratislava is not Moscow, Slovakia is Europe.” This message was aimed at opposing the policies of Prime Minister Robert Fico.
**Thousands Protest in 30 Cities**
On January 24, thousands of people took to the streets across 30 cities in Slovakia. The protests were led by a slogan saying “Slovakia is Europe.” Around 100,000 people joined the demonstrations nationwide, voicing their opposition to Fico’s policies and pro-Russian stance.
**Protests Also Aim at Fico’s Visit to Moscow**
The protests were also sparked by Fico’s visit to Moscow in December. During his trip, he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This was a rare visit to the Kremlin by an EU leader since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
**Fico Criticizes Zelensky and Protest Organizers**
Fico has criticized Zelensky for supporting the protests against Slovakia’s government. He called Zelensky’s comment “laughable” and said it was “an inappropriate interference in the internal affairs of the Slovak Republic.”
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