Slovakia's Political Landscape Shifts as Pro-Russia Leader Returns to Power

Former Prime Minister Robert Fico, known for accusations of turning Slovakia into a "Mafia state," has returned to power after winning parliamentary elections with his Smer-SD party. Fico's victory has raised concerns about the weakening of Western unity regarding Ukraine, as he has promised to end military support for Ukraine and potentially block further EU sanctions against Russia. While there were hopes for a more moderate government with the involvement of the Hlas party, led by former Prime Minister Peter Pellegrini, it is likely that Fico's party will dominate any coalition government.