Slovak PM Faces Coup Claims, Opposition Pressure, and Growing Crisis
Executive Summary
Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico has accused opposition forces of plotting a “Maidan”-style coup, citing a controversial intelligence report, and announced measures to counter alleged anti-government protests. The opposition and civil society accuse Fico of stoking fear to consolidate power and deflect criticism over his pro-Russian stance, authoritarian policies, and economic mismanagement. The fragile coalition faces a no-confidence vote as opposition leaders push for stronger ties with Ukraine and the EU, signaling mounting political instability in Slovakia.
Analysis
Robert Fico claims opposition groups, supported by foreign actors, are plotting to overthrow his government through protests and blockades. His allegations, based on a Slovak Intelligence Service (SIS) report, have been widely discredited. The report revolves around emails from a local NGO advocating peaceful protests, which the government has classified to justify closed parliamentary sessions and suppress scrutiny. Fico has vowed “preventative measures” against demonstrations, prompting criticism of authoritarian overreach.
Fico’s pro-Russian policies, including his controversial visit to Moscow and criticism of Ukraine’s decision to halt Russian gas transit, have drawn ire domestically and internationally. His threats to cut aid to Ukraine and block its EU aspirations have worsened relations with Kyiv. Opposition leaders, including Michal Šimečka of Progressive Slovakia, visited Kyiv to reaffirm Slovakia’s support for Ukraine, highlighting internal divisions on foreign policy.
Slovakia faces economic strain, exacerbated by Fico’s failure to diversify energy supplies and reliance on Russian gas. His government has struggled to address inflation and a collapsing healthcare system, fueling protests under the banner “Slovakia is Europe.” Fico’s coalition holds a razor-thin majority, and a no-confidence vote looms amid infighting and growing opposition momentum.
The opposition, led by Progressive Slovakia, has unified on key issues such as EU and NATO alignment, accusing Fico of undermining democratic values. The party has gained traction in polls, reflecting public dissatisfaction with Fico’s governance and pro-Russia tilt. However, forming a cohesive pro-Western government remains challenging due to Slovakia’s fragmented political landscape.