Meeting of the US Congressional delegation with Prime Minister Robert Fico, Defence Minister Robert Kaliňák and Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár. (source: FB Veľvyslanectva USA na Slovensku/ US Ambassy Slovakia )
Republican Senator Mike Rounds said that despite disagreements with Slovak PM Robert Fico's approach to Ukraine, the USA remains strong allies with Slovakia.
A US congressional delegation, including two senators and five congressmen, met during the weekend with Prime Minister Fico and his two ministers. Fico said at the meeting that for Slovakia, membership in the EU and NATO is a pillar of foreign policy and nothing is changing in this regard, reports the Sme daily.
The delegation also met with President Zuzana Čaputová and civil society.
While addressing concerns about the rule of law and media freedom, the delegation acknowledged diverse opinions on planned judicial changes, but refrained from any involvement in domestic affairs.
If there were no anti-government protests, which have been taking place around Slovakia since last December, it would be unfavourable to democracy, said Republican Congressman Darrell Issa. He believes that protests and dissent with the government are part of a healthy democracy.
The fact that Fico's party, Smer, attacked the United States before the elections and called President Čaputová an American agent, is considered part of the political struggle, according to Issa.
True democracy is a dirty fight, and often full of false statements and accusations, Issa added.
Slovakia's strategic role
The delegation emphasised the importance of hearing perspectives from leaders in the region considering the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. They expressed concerns about Russia violating international law and the need to prevent such actions in the future. Despite differing views on Ukraine, the delegation emphasised that they do not want to ignore Slovakia's position.
You are part of a dangerous neighbourhood, said Rounds in connection with the ongoing war in Ukraine.
That's why we want to hear the opinions of leaders in this part of the world, he concluded.
Prior to their visit to Slovakia, the delegation spent some time in Poland.
USA won't leave NATO
Regarding recent statements by former US President Donald Trump, the delegation, led by Senator Rounds, reassured that the USA remains committed to NATO, and an exit would require congressional approval.
Senator Chris Coons added that the majority in Congress supports continuing aid to Ukraine, even though there are disagreements on unrelated aspects of US security policy.
