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The situation in Slovakia mirrors a broader trend of rising populism across Central and Eastern Europe, where leaders echo pro-Russian sentiments and weaken ties with the West. Slovakia’s movement away from Western unity could potentially weaken collective support for Ukraine and embolden pro-Kremlin leaders across the continent. Critics of Fico’s government see his actions as part of a Russian strategy to sow division within the EU and NATO, especially during times of aggression against Ukraine.