Slovak premier Pellegrini warns against invoking NATO Article 5 after Fico's remarks

During a recent statement in Prešov, Robert Fico expressed his desire for Slovakia to stay out of any conflict that might arise from invoking NATO’s Article 5. In response, Prime Minister Peter Pellegrini emphasized that NATO membership entails responsibilities as well as advantages, and warned that Slovakia should not send a signal of standing aside in a crisis. He said he views Fico’s remarks as a reminder to prevent current military tensions with Russia from turning into war, noting that activating Article 5 would be unnecessary.

Fico, who maintains close ties with Moscow, also voiced concerns about the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict and the risk of a broader European war. He highlighted that even an accidental drone strike on a civilian building could trigger the collective defence clause. The exchange reflects ongoing debate in Bratislava over how to balance alliance commitments with a desire to avoid direct involvement in the fighting.