
Prosecutor ends investigations into Slovakia's arms donations to Ukraine
Prosecutor ends investigations into Slovakia's arms donations to Ukraine
- A regional prosecutor announced the closure of investigations into the donation of fighter jets and air defense systems to Ukraine.
- The prosecutor deemed the equipment outdated and their donation not a crime, countering claims of neglect to national security.
- Prime Minister Robert Fico criticized the prosecutor's reasoning and emphasized that Slovakia is now dependent on foreign air defense capabilities.
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In February 2026, the Bratislava regional prosecutor announced the closure of multiple investigations regarding the donation of fighter jets and air defense systems to Ukraine. These donations were made by the previous Slovak government led by Prime Minister Eduard Heger, which aimed to support Ukraine amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. The donated equipment included Soviet-era MiG-29 jets and S-300 missile systems and occurred during Russia's invasion of Ukraine from late 2022 into early 2023. Prosecutor Rastislav Remeta stated that the donated military equipment was outdated, not fully operational, and lacked essential components, leading to the conclusion that no criminal wrongdoing had occurred. Remeta argued that the donation was in line with efficient state property management, countering claims by the current prime minister, Robert Fico, that it compromised Slovakia's national security and left the country vulnerable. Fico criticized the prosecutor's decision, suggesting that it covered up political motives benefiting the previous administration. He also highlighted that Slovakia's airspace is currently protected by foreign fighters from Hungary, Poland, and the Czech Republic. This situation underscores ongoing political tensions in Slovakia surrounding military aid, as Fico halted military assistance to Ukraine upon taking office, although he continued allowing commercial arms sales. The closure of the investigations has intensified the debate on the ramifications of Slovakia's military donations and the effectiveness of the current government's response to security needs.