Latest news with #JurajBlanár
Miami Herald
30-06-2025
- Politics
- Miami Herald
Ukraine Rebukes NATO Member For Plea To Forgive Putin
Russia could be forgiven for its aggression in Ukraine if such a move could usher in peace talks, Slovakia's foreign minister Juraj Blanár has said in comments that have prompted a rebuke from Kyiv. In an interview with Slovak broadcaster STVR, Blanár said that the war in Ukraine could not be resolved militarily and that as part of a return to diplomacy, the West could forgive Russia. The comments from the top diplomat of a NATO member sparked anger among Ukrainian voices on social media and comes as Slovakia's prime minister, Robert Fico, faces criticism among Kyiv's supporters over his relationship with Russia's Vladimir Putin. Newsweek has contacted the Slovakian Foreign Ministry for comment. The war Putin started continues with no clear path to negotiations following Moscow's rejection of a ceasefire deal. Blanár's comments add to European concerns about the stance of an EU and NATO country toward Ukraine given Fico's opposition to continuing military aid for Kyiv and sanctions on Moscow. As negotiations remain stalled, Blanár said Sunday the international community may need to "perhaps" forgive Russia's actions and resume dialogue with Moscow. In a translation of his comments, he said that "diplomatic solutions" could be sought and that there should be "communication" with Russia to prevent a third world war, which could involve "even" forgiveness. But Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said on X Monday that "Russia's sense of impunity is the root cause of its crimes." Sybiha's post added that it was naive to expect a criminal to stop if their crime is forgiven instead of punished and that Moscow will "hit the other cheek as well." The remarks came after Slovakia requested an 18th package of EU sanctions against Russia be postponed until a decision is reached over on the consequences of the European Commission's initiative to end dependence on Russian fossil fuels by 2030. Since taking office in 2023, Prime Minister Fico has halted Slovak military aid to Ukraine and unlike the EU increased diplomatic engagement with Russia, attending the Victory Day Parade in Moscow in May and meeting with Putin. Russia and Ukraine have held two rounds of face-to-face talks in Istanbul on May 16 on June 2, resulting in prisoner exchanges but no steps toward a ceasefire. During the latter meeting, both sides presented proposals for ending the war, which Putin said were incompatible. Kyiv had demanded an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, which is backed Western partners, while Russia insisted on a limited truce to recover the bodies of fallen soldiers. Slovakian Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár: "We want the conflict in Ukraine to be resolved peacefully, even though it will be difficult, and then look for ways to consolidate relations with must find some form of cooperation and maybe even forgiveness for everything that has happened here." Former Ukrainian presidential spokesperson Iuliia Mendel on X: "Slovak FM Juraj Blanár says resolving the Ukraine war (Russian aggression against Ukraine) requires communication with Russia and suggests the West may need to 'forgive' Russia. He emphasizes diplomacy and international law over military solutions." Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on X: "It's naive to expect a criminal to stop if their crime is forgiven instead of punished. Russia will hit your other cheek as well." Pro-Ukrainian X user Devana: "If Russia received a harsh punishment for every crime, it would act differently. The world is partly complicit in Russian crimes and some countries should be put on trial together with the Russian Federation." Russia said it is open to a third round of negotiation and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed his country is willing to host and that efforts are underway to arrange a direct meeting between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky—possibly with involvement from President Donald Trump. Related Articles Betting Market in Disarray Over Zelensky Suit That's Also Maybe Not a SuitUkrainian President Moves to Withdraw From Ottawa Convention: What to KnowNATO Scrambles Fighter Jets After Russia's Largest Air Assault on UkraineF-16 Pilot Killed As Russia Launches Largest Air Assault on Ukraine 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
Newsweek
30-06-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Ukraine Rebukes NATO Member For Plea To Forgive Putin
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Russia could be forgiven for its aggression in Ukraine if such a move could usher in peace talks, Slovakia's foreign minister Juraj Blanár has said in comments that have prompted a rebuke from Kyiv. In an interview with Slovak broadcaster STVR, Blanár said that the war in Ukraine could not be resolved militarily and that as part of a return to diplomacy, the West could forgive Russia. The comments from the top diplomat of a NATO member sparked anger among Ukrainian voices on social media and comes as Slovakia's prime minister, Robert Fico, faces criticism among Kyiv's supporters over his relationship with Russia's Vladimir Putin. Newsweek has contacted the Slovakian Foreign Ministry for comment. Slovakia's Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar in Warsaw on March 13, 2025. Slovakia's Foreign Minister Juraj Blanar in Warsaw on March 13, It Matters The war Putin started continues with no clear path to negotiations following Moscow's rejection of a ceasefire deal. Blanár's comments add to European concerns about the stance of an EU and NATO country toward Ukraine given Fico's opposition to continuing military aid for Kyiv and sanctions on Moscow. What To Know As negotiations remain stalled, Blanár said Sunday the international community may need to "perhaps" forgive Russia's actions and resume dialogue with Moscow. In a translation of his comments, he said that "diplomatic solutions" could be sought and that there should be "communication" with Russia to prevent a third world war, which could involve "even" forgiveness. Slovak FM Juraj Blanár says resolving the Ukraine war (Russian aggression against Ukraine) requires communication with Russia and suggests the West may need to "forgive" Russia. He emphasizes diplomacy and international law over military solutions. — Iuliia Mendel (@IuliiaMendel) June 29, 2025 But Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said on X Monday that "Russia's sense of impunity is the root cause of its crimes." Sybiha's post added that it was naive to expect a criminal to stop if their crime is forgiven instead of punished and that Moscow will "hit the other cheek as well." The remarks came after Slovakia requested an 18th package of EU sanctions against Russia be postponed until a decision is reached over on the consequences of the European Commission's initiative to end dependence on Russian fossil fuels by 2030. Since taking office in 2023, Prime Minister Fico has halted Slovak military aid to Ukraine and unlike the EU increased diplomatic engagement with Russia, attending the Victory Day Parade in Moscow in May and meeting with Putin. Russia and Ukraine have held two rounds of face-to-face talks in Istanbul on May 16 on June 2, resulting in prisoner exchanges but no steps toward a ceasefire. During the latter meeting, both sides presented proposals for ending the war, which Putin said were incompatible. Kyiv had demanded an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, which is backed Western partners, while Russia insisted on a limited truce to recover the bodies of fallen soldiers. What People Are Saying Slovakian Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár: "We want the conflict in Ukraine to be resolved peacefully, even though it will be difficult, and then look for ways to consolidate relations with must find some form of cooperation and maybe even forgiveness for everything that has happened here." Former Ukrainian presidential spokesperson Iuliia Mendel on X: "Slovak FM Juraj Blanár says resolving the Ukraine war (Russian aggression against Ukraine) requires communication with Russia and suggests the West may need to 'forgive' Russia. He emphasizes diplomacy and international law over military solutions." Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on X: "It's naive to expect a criminal to stop if their crime is forgiven instead of punished. Russia will hit your other cheek as well." Pro-Ukrainian X user Devana: "If Russia received a harsh punishment for every crime, it would act differently. The world is partly complicit in Russian crimes and some countries should be put on trial together with the Russian Federation." What Happens Next Russia said it is open to a third round of negotiation and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed his country is willing to host and that efforts are underway to arrange a direct meeting between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky—possibly with involvement from President Donald Trump.
Al-Ahram Weekly
19-06-2025
- Politics
- Al-Ahram Weekly
Slovakia FM thanks Egypt for evacuating its nationals amid regional conflict - Foreign Affairs
Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár thanked Egypt during a phone call with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty on Thursday for facilitating the evacuation of Slovak nationals from Israel to Egyptian territory, ensuring their safe return home amid the ongoing regional escalation. During their call, the two top diplomats discussed the escalating regional tensions driven by the ongoing military confrontation between Israel and Iran. Minister Abdelatty warned of the danger that the Middle East could slide into chaos and stressed the need to de-escalate, halt hostilities, and contain the situation through political and diplomatic channels. Several governments have launched emergency operations to evacuate their nationals from Israel through Egypt and Jordan as Tel Aviv closed its airspace. On Wednesday, Poland and France urged their nationals to evacuate via Egypt's Sharm El-Sheikh or Jordan as safe exit points from the region. On Monday, the Czech Republic expressed hope for Egypt's assistance in evacuating its nationals from Israel. The two top diplomats also exchanged views on the recent developments in the Gaza Strip. Minister Abdelatty highlighted to his Slovakian counterpart Cairo's intensive efforts to restore the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Palestinians. Also on Thursday, during a separate phone call, Minister Abdelatty held similar regional discussions on the Israel-Iran conflict and the Gaza war with his Slovenian counterpart, Tanja Fajon. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Ya Biladi
22-05-2025
- Politics
- Ya Biladi
Sahara : Slovakia joins growing international support for Morocco's autonomy plan
As part of the growing international momentum supporting Morocco's sovereignty over its Sahara and the Kingdom's autonomy initiative, Slovakia has recognized the Moroccan proposal, submitted to the UN Secretary-General on April 11, 2007, as a serious and credible basis for a final resolution under United Nations auspices. This position was outlined in a joint declaration signed on Thursday in Rabat, following a meeting between Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates, Nasser Bourita, and Slovakia's Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Juraj Blanár. The joint declaration stated: «Slovakia welcomes the serious and credible Moroccan efforts to move the political process forward towards resolution and supports reaching a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution, based on compromise, consistent with the principles and purposes of the Charter of the United Nations, within the framework of all relevant resolutions adopted by the United Nations Security Council, including the most recent resolution S/RES/2756 of October 31st, 2024». With this new and reinforced stance, Slovakia joins the growing number of countries backing Morocco's sovereignty over the Sahara and its autonomy initiative, which continues to gain international recognition and support.
Morocco World
22-05-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Slovakia Reiterates Support for Morocco's Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara
Rabat – Slovakia has reaffirmed its backing of Morocco's Autonomy Plan for Western Sahara as a basis for resolving the long-standing dispute, according to a joint declaration between the two countries. The statement came during the official visit of Slovak Minister of Foreign and European Affairs Juraj Blanár to Rabat today, where he was welcomed by Morocco's Minister of Foreign Affairs Nasser Bourita. The visit marks the 32nd anniversary of diplomatic ties between Morocco and Slovakia, with both ministers expressing satisfaction over the depth of their countries' cooperation. 'Slovakia acknowledges the 'Moroccan initiative,' presented to UN Secretary General on April 11th 2007, as a basis for a definitive solution under the auspices of the United Nations,' reads the declaration. In addition, Slovakia welcomed the 'serious and credible Moroccan efforts to move the political process forward towards resolution and supports reaching a just, lasting, and mutually acceptable political solution, based on compromise,' in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter. The statement also expressed Slovakia's support for UN Security Council Resolution 2756 and reaffirmed the key role of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) in maintaining peace and supporting the Personal Envoy of the Secretary-General. Stronger political and economic ties The visit was also an opportunity to deepen cooperation across various areas, including renewable energy, green technologies, agriculture, automotive manufacturing, logistics, and environmental protection. The two ministers signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish a Political Consultations Mechanism, aimed at boosting regular diplomatic dialogue. Both sides agreed to launch regular Economic Forums to bring together business leaders from both countries. Special emphasis was placed on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), encouraging innovation, and building capacity to increase their access to markets and financing. The ministers also expressed their intention to streamline investment procedures and customs operations to facilitate cross-border trade and investment. Morocco and Slovakia committed to expanding cooperation in cultural, academic, and scientific fields. This includes promoting human development, enhancing civil society ties, and fostering research and innovation in areas like the blue economy. Bilateral academic initiatives and partnerships between universities and research institutions are expected to be boosted as part of this shared vision. The two countries also reaffirmed their shared commitment to multilateralism, international law, and the United Nations Charter. Morocco and Slovakia pledged mutual support for each other's candidacies as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council for the 2028–2029 term. Both sides expressed the importance of coordination among non-permanent members to effectively address global challenges. Read also: Polisario Ignored, Isolated, and Irrelevant at AU-EU Summit Slovakia also expressed its continued support for Morocco within the European Union and welcomed the dialogue between the Visegrád Group and Morocco. Bratislava reaffirmed its commitment to promoting triangular cooperation between the Visegrád countries, Morocco, and African partners. Beyond economic and diplomatic matters, Morocco and Slovakia agreed to strengthen cooperation in internal security, crisis management, and law enforcement. Areas of collaboration include combating terrorism, cybercrime, human trafficking, organized crime, money laundering, and corruption. They pledged to work together to curb illegal migration and human smuggling, while promoting legal and safe migration pathways. The ministers exchanged views on the security situation in the Sahel and broader challenges facing Africa. Slovakia welcomed Morocco's leadership within the African Union on migration issues, and commended King Mohammed VI's initiatives for the continent. The two ministers concluded their meeting by reiterating their countries' commitment to global peace, sustainable development, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. Tags: politicsslovakia and MoroccoWestern sahara
