Janice R. Andrews
Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico has reappeared in Vietnam after being out of sight for two weeks following his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Fico was last seen in Moscow on December 22, where he held talks with Putin amid rising tensions over the cessation of Russian gas transits through Ukraine.
For weeks, the Prime Minister’s whereabouts remained a mystery, with his office offering no explanations and Fico only communicating through vague videos posted on social media. The footage, showing little more than drawn curtains, left viewers unable to determine his location.
However, after two weeks of speculation, Fico was discovered at the luxurious Capella Hanoi hotel in Vietnam. He is reportedly staying in the lavish Grand Opera Madama Butterfly suite, which costs over £4,900 per night and boasts a rooftop jacuzzi, terrace, and a private dining room.
Despite inquiries from Slovak media and government officials, the details of Fico’s activities in Vietnam remain unclear, with no official visit being announced. Initially, there was speculation that he might have been in Dubai for the holiday season, but some had already predicted he was in Vietnam.
Protests Erupt in Slovakia
The Prime Minister’s sudden disappearance has led to protests in Slovakia, with around 4,000 people taking to the streets in Bratislava to voice their opposition to his policies. The protest, organized by the Peace for Ukraine group, accused Fico of undermining Slovakia’s role in the European Union after his meeting with Putin.
Demonstrators carried signs that read “We are Europe” and “Traitor,” chanting slogans like “We will not give up Slovakia” and “Down with Fico.” The protests underscore growing concerns about Fico’s foreign policy and his handling of Slovakia’s energy crisis.
Energy Crisis Deepens
Fico’s disappearance occurs amid an ongoing energy crisis linked to the halted gas deal between Ukraine and Russia. After Ukraine refused to renew a long-standing agreement to allow Russian gas transit through its territory, Slovakia was left facing the consequences. Fico recently accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of sabotaging Russian gas supplies, claiming Slovakia has lost nearly £415 million annually due to the disruption.
Fico also suggested that Slovakia might reduce electricity supplies to Ukraine unless it receives compensation or the gas deal is revived. The situation has put Slovakia in a difficult position, as the country heavily depends on Russian gas.
Growing Discontent
Fico’s critics argue that his close ties to Putin and his controversial statements regarding Ukraine and gas supply issues could isolate Slovakia within the European Union. While Fico defends his policies as pragmatic, many believe they align too closely with Russia’s interests, causing further division within the EU.
As Fico makes his return to public life, his actions and decisions over the past two weeks are fueling political unrest and deepening the rift between his government and pro-European factions. This ongoing situation raises important questions about Slovakia’s future in the EU and its energy policy.
