Mass Protests in Slovakia Target PM Fico’s Government

Tens of thousands of Slovakians have taken to the streets in protest against Prime Minister Robert Fico’s government, challenging his assertions that the demonstrations are orchestrated by provocateurs aligned with the liberal opposition to instigate a coup.

Protests have been held in approximately 25 towns and cities across Slovakia, forming part of a growing wave of dissent against Fico’s populist-nationalist coalition. Protesters accuse the prime minister of eroding Slovakia’s democratic institutions, compromising its cultural values, and undermining its standing within the EU and NATO. They are particularly critical of his vocal attacks on Ukraine and his apparent shift toward closer ties with Moscow.

Fico, however, has dismissed opposition claims that he aims to withdraw Slovakia from the EU and NATO, insisting that the country’s membership in both alliances is not under threat.

According to the Slovak daily Dennik N, around 100,000 people participated in the protests nationwide, with at least 40,000 gathered in the capital, Bratislava. Another 10,000 protesters demonstrated in Banská Bystrica, a city of 75,000 residents, while a separate rally in Košice on Thursday drew 15,000 participants.

Despite Fico’s warnings of potential violence, the protests have remained peaceful. The prime minister had earlier cautioned that provocateurs might incite attacks on public buildings, triggering police responses that could escalate the unrest. However, no such incidents have been reported.

In a press conference on Friday, Fico announced that authorities would soon begin deporting several foreign „instructors” whom he accused of assisting the opposition in plotting to overthrow his government. These claims have been met with skepticism, further fueling criticism of his leadership.