Slovakia divided

Slovakia may be a small country, but its upcoming elections could have a big impact across Europe and beyond. One of the strongest supporters of Ukraine in its war against Russia, Slovakia was the first Nato country to deliver fighter jets to its eastern neighbour. But that could soon change.

September’s snap elections follow the collapse of Slovakia’s staunchly pro-Western government. Leading the polls is the populist party of former Prime Minister Robert Fico. The fiercely Moscow-friendly candidate has promised to end military aid to Ukraine, if he returns to power.

In some respects, he is pushing at an open door. Anti-western sentiment is rising in Slovakia, helped by a sophisticated Russian disinformation campaign, both online and in traditional media. While many Slovak households are struggling with rising food and energy costs, Fico and other populist parties are making political capital from the economic impact of the Ukraine conflict - accusing recent governments of failing to put Slovakia first.

Opponents fear that if Fico wins, Slovakia will follow in the footsteps of Hungary’s Viktor Orban, threatening the independence of the media and judiciary, and challenging the EU and Nato’s unity over Ukraine.

John Kampfner travels across Slovakia to find out why the country looks set for a dramatic political about-turn. He meets those drawn to populist messages, and explore the role Russia is playing in the battle for the hearts and minds of Slovak voters.

(Photo: Bratislava Castle, Slovakia. Credit: Ludovic Marin/AFP)