Croatian President Zoran Milanović met with Slovak President Peter Pellegrini and other Slovak leaders in Bratislava, warning that Europe is at a pivotal and dangerous political moment. Milanović emphasised the need for realism and responsibility in how Europe approaches the war in Ukraine, arguing that suggested territorial concessions carry heavy human costs and must be Ukraine’s own decision. He also criticised distant advice from other states, saying its consequences are borne by Ukrainians and Russians rather than those offering it.
Milanović voiced concern over increased centralisation within the European Union, arguing that the EU should remain a union of sovereign states rather than evolve into a centralised political entity. He praised Slovakia’s leadership for independent thinking and highlighted broader discussions during his visit on economic cooperation, trade, tourism and industry between the two countries.
At the same time, the visit comes amid wider debates in EU capitals about support for Ukraine and Europe’s strategic direction, with upcoming European Council meetings expected to focus on security, defence and the bloc’s political cohesion.
