Fico May Abandon Anti-European Course if Orban Loses Elections - Bloomberg

According to information from the Ukrinform agency, Bloomberg reports that Slovakia, led by Prime Minister Robert Fico, may shift away from its anti-European course if Viktor Orban loses the elections in Hungary. Agency sources indicate that Slovakia has a significant dependence on financial assistance from the European Union, and Fico's personal power is less stable compared to Orban, complicating his ability to maintain anti-European positions without the support of the Hungarian leader.

Fico, who previously supported Orban's veto against halting a €90 billion loan for Ukraine, has caused disappointment among many EU member states. Despite his threats last month that he might 'take the baton from Hungary,' Bloomberg sources believe that Fico is likely to change his position if Orban is no longer in power.

Agency interlocutors emphasize that Slovakia has a serious dependence on financial support from EU countries, making it unlikely that Fico will risk escalating conflicts if Orban is no longer in power. While Fico shares some views with the Hungarian Prime Minister, particularly regarding cooperation with Moscow, the Slovak leader generally demonstrates pragmatism when it comes to the economic interests of his country, noted an unnamed European official.

At the same time, the publication points out that if there is a change of power in Hungary, the Russian Federation may focus its attention on Slovakia, attempting to influence its politics and upcoming elections. In such a scenario, Fico is likely to try to balance between criticizing the EU and maintaining the benefits of membership in it, stated his former associate Boris Zala.

It is worth recalling that the leader of the Hungarian opposition party 'Tisa,' Peter Madyar, previously stated that his future government would adopt a 'pragmatic' approach towards Russia. These statements indicate potential changes in Hungary's foreign policy that could impact neighboring countries, including Slovakia.

Additionally, it is noteworthy that U.S. Vice President Jay D. Vance, during his visit to Hungary, expressed support for Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. This occurred just days before important elections in the country, during which Vance sharply criticized Brussels for allegedly interfering in the electoral campaign.

Photo: Zoltán Fischer / Press Office of the Prime Minister

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