Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico’s visit to Moscow for the Victory Day celebrations has drawn criticism from European leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

Axar.az reports, citing Euractiv, that Fico was the only EU leader to attend the celebrations in Moscow and that his visit came amid criticism over his Russia-friendly stance and opposition to EU aid for Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly told Fico during their meeting that Russia would do everything possible to meet Slovakia’s energy needs and welcomed the restoration of bilateral cooperation.

Fico said his visit was “a manifestation of respect for the victims of the Second World War” and stated that he opposed the creation of a new “Iron Curtain” between the European Union and Russia.

It was also noted that several European countries refused to allow Fico’s plane to use their airspace on the way to Moscow.