Slovakia offers to host Ukraine peace talks as Putin signals openness

Dec 27, 2024 - Russian President Vladimir Putin has revealed that Slovakia is willing to host peace talks between Moscow and Kyiv, following a proposal by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.

Putin, speaking to reporters on Thursday, said Fico suggested during a recent meeting that Slovakia would “gladly provide its country as a platform” for potential negotiations aimed at ending the war in Ukraine.

Despite the offer, peace conditions put forward by Moscow have been repeatedly rejected by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who accuses Putin of using talks as a delay tactic while pursuing his objectives. Slovakia, which borders Ukraine, has faced criticism for its softer stance toward Russia, with Fico maintaining friendly ties with Moscow since his re-election in 2023.

Putin emphasized Russia’s openness to dialogue but warned that its goals in Ukraine remain non-negotiable. He also hinted at the readiness of a new hypersonic missile, the Oreshnik, saying it could be deployed “if necessary,” though there was no immediate urgency.

As the war nears its third year, Slovakia’s proposal may test the appetite for diplomacy, though significant divisions remain.