Slovakia Unites Against Government Changes: Thousands of protesters take to the streets in over 20 cities to peacefully demand that their country remains in international organizations and rejects a pro-Russia policy.
Slovakia Unites Against Government Changes
After Prime Minister Robert Fico alleged there were plans to escalate anti-government protests into an attempted coup, Slovaks took to the streets in over 20 cities to peacefully protest the government’s pro-Russia policy.
The Atmosphere of Protest
Late on Friday afternoon, people slowly gather at Freedom Square in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. The atmosphere is calm as they stream into the square from all directions, carrying banners and flags of Slovakia, the EU, and NATO. Their message is clear: Slovakia belongs in Europe.
A Series of Protests
This isn’t the first rally of its kind being held in Bratislava. The latest series of protests began on December 23, a day after Fico’s surprise trip to Russia. Since then, they have been held at regular intervals, with all participants agreeing that Slovakia does not belong to Russia.
A Peaceful Demand
The protesters across over 20 cities are peacefully demanding that Slovakia remains in international organizations and that the government stops undermining its position. The country has been a member of NATO since 2002 and joined the EU in 2004.
Rejection of Coup Claims
Protesters roundly reject Fico’s claims of an attempted coup, saying they are part of a narrative used by authoritarian leaders. “It’s very difficult to react to such delusions,” said Lucia Stasselova, one of the organizers. Marian Kulich added that the claims are unfounded.
Peaceful Protests Continue
The rally goes off smoothly and peacefully, without any signs of rioting or attempted coup. Demonstrations were not limited to the capital; attendance increased in other cities, such as Banska Bystrica. The total number of protesters was estimated at 100,000 nationwide.
A Growing Movement
The protest will continue as long as people want to protest, said Stasselova of Peace for Ukraine. It will depend on the actions of Fico’s cabinet and their statements. The peaceful anti-government protests are a growing movement, with more than 20 cities involved.
Opposition Response
Fico faced a no-confidence vote in the Slovak parliament but had it called off when he unexpectedly requested a secret session to share confidential information. The opposition withdrew its motion in protest, calling Fico’s speech “paranoid.” Lawmakers criticized the abuse of the SIS for political purposes.
A Clear Message
The protesters’ message is clear: Slovakia belongs in Europe. This peaceful anti-government movement will continue as long as people want to express their views and demand change.
