For the first time in two years, Slovakia will send a new package of military assistance to Ukraine. Prime Minister Robert Fico’s government has approved the delivery of engineering and medical equipment, Slovak Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák announced in Kyiv.

“I am pleased to inform you that, together with Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal, we have signed a memorandum concerning the 14th support package, which provides for Slovakia’s delivery of engineering and demining equipment to Ukraine,” Kaliňák said on Monday during the 3rd International Defense Industry Forum in Kyiv.

He added that discussions during the forum also covered additional projects aimed at expanding bilateral defense cooperation.

Slovakia to Supply Demining Vehicles and Medical Equipment

As part of the aid package, Ukraine will receive five Bozena-type demining vehicles, other engineering equipment, and supplies for medical services.

This marks a significant policy shift for the Slovak government. Until now, Prime Minister Robert Fico had been openly critical of military support for Ukraine, which continues to resist Russia’s full-scale invasion. His administration, formed in late 2023, had suspended all military assistance to Kyiv shortly after taking office.

A Change from Earlier Policy

Before the freeze in October 2023, Slovakia had been among Ukraine’s active military donors, transferring 13 MiG-29 fighter jets, S-300 and Kub air defense systems, 30 BMP-1 infantry fighting vehicles, and large quantities of ammunition.

The topic of renewed defense cooperation was already raised during the meeting between Prime Minister Fico and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Uzhhorod on September 5. The new memorandum suggests that Bratislava may now be looking to rebuild its defense ties with Kyiv — a notable turn in its previously cautious foreign policy.