Every week The Slovak Spectator brings you a selection of three short stories from across Slovakia from which pessimism and negativity are absent.
A van full of hope: town sends aid to Ukraine
Despite the war in Ukraine fading from daily headlines, people in Martin have shown it is far from forgotten. SME reported how locals joined a humanitarian drive and filled an entire van – around 200 kilograms of goods – with food, hygiene products and medical supplies, destined for displaced families and elderly people in Ukraine.
The effort, launched by local volunteers and supported by schools and community groups, was part of a campaign by the NGO Adra. Organisers were moved by the generosity shown and plan to continue supporting Ukrainians as the conflict goes on.
Ružomberok police offer refreshing kindness in the summer heat
In Ružomberok, local police turned a scorching day into a pleasant surprise. As temperatures soared past 30°C, municipal officers handed out bottles of mineral water in the town centre, reminding people – especially older residents – of the importance of staying hydrated, SME daily reported.
The campaign, initiated by the mayor, focused on prevention and care during periods of extreme heat. Around a hundred passers-by received water, with many pleasantly surprised by the gesture.
Officers plan to continue the initiative throughout the summer. The city also invites residents to cool off at the public water feature near the landmark sculpture.
Košice welcomes rare medical marvel: identical triplet girls born
Košice’s Children’s Teaching Hospital made headlines with the birth of identical triplet girls – Sára, Ester and Lívia. Weighing between 1,660 and 2,200 grams, the babies were cared for by the hospital’s dedicated neonatology team. Though born prematurely, all three are doing well – each gaining nearly 400 grams in just four weeks.
Their mother, Petronela, described them as a completely unexpected miracle. Doctors say the natural occurrence of identical triplets is as rare as one in 100 million.
“We witness powerful stories every day,” the hospital shared. “But this one – three identical sisters – is truly special. We’re honoured to be part of their beginning.”
Some feel-good stories published by The Slovak Spectator for you to enjoy:
Banská Bystrica and Charleston prove that true friendship can thrive across continents.
Five breathtaking Tatra hikes unite Slovakia and Poland with stunning views and shared natural wonder.
From nursing aspirations to HR leader: How Miroslava Rychtárechová is shaping Tesco Slovakia.
Why Slovakia’s SNP Trail should be on your hiking bucket list.
Liptovský Hrádok’s modest castle has found a grand second life as a public treasure.
After a decade in the making, Gačovská skala opens as Slovenský raj’s newest natural gem, offering hikers breathtaking views from one of the park’s most protected areas.
Niall Kenny and his family are cycling from Ireland to Slovakia to raise support for disability centres in two countries with shared struggles.
Sunrise hiking in central Slovakia: Start your day on these five peaks.
Meme of the week
Caption: Fico & Russia; 18th sanctions package
A meme circulating on Slovak social media pokes fun at Prime Minister Robert Fico’s pro-Russian stance. Created by the satirical platform Zomri, it features a viral image of a couple caught cheating at a Coldplay concert – labelled “Fico & Rusko” – followed by a scene of rejection titled “18 balík sankcií”, referencing the EU’s latest sanctions against Russia.
Despite his historically warm rhetoric towards Moscow and frequent criticism of Western military aid to Ukraine, Fico ultimately supported the EU’s 18th sanctions package in July. After blocking the deal six times, Slovakia lifted its veto once Fico claimed to have received sufficient guarantees from the European Commission.
In the end, Fico publicly embraced Russia – only to walk away when it mattered most.
You can send me your tips for good news stories about Slovakia or funny memes at: kseniia.husieva@spectator.sk. Thank you!
