Slovakia plans to provide humanitarian aid and demining support to Ukraine. At the government meeting, they will discuss protection against drones and strengthening Slovakia's defense.
The third International Defense Industries Forum DFNC³ has concluded in Kyiv, gathering around 2,000 participants from over 20 countries. A number of intergovernmental and business agreements were signed at the forum, opening new opportunities for Ukrainian manufacturers.
Slovak Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák stated that the country would not change its position on not providing weapons to Ukraine. Slovakia will continue to provide non-lethal, humanitarian aid, preparing the 14th and 15th packages.
Slovakia will transfer five Bozena vehicles and other demining equipment to Ukraine. An agreement has been signed for the gratuitous transfer of engineering, construction, transport, and medical equipment.
Slovakia's Defense Minister Robert Kaliniak called it “unthinkable” to increase defense spending to 3% of GDP. The country plans to remain at 2% of GDP, despite NATO's calls for increased spending due to the threat from Russia.
Slovakia's president and defense minister strongly condemned Ukraine's decision to stop oil transit. They warned of possible retaliatory measures if the situation does not improve.
Slovakia is officially against military aid to Ukraine, but Slovak ammunition is still being supplied to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Instead of sending NATO troops to Ukraine, Slovak Defense Minister Robert Kalyniak proposes to bring back combat-ready Ukrainian men who have gone abroad.
The EU plans to lift sanctions against a Slovak citizen and two Russian businessmen.
Slovak Defense Minister Robert Kaliniak said that the war in Ukraine has no military solution and it is time to start peace talks with the leaders of Ukraine, Russia, the EU and the US. This comes after Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico said that life in Kyiv is "absolutely normal" despite recent Russian missile attacks.
Slovakia is negotiating with the United States to purchase Patriot air defense systems to protect its airspace. Slovakia's Defense Minister announced the talks and plans to receive a discount on the weapons.
