Tensions have escalated between Ukraine and Slovakia following accusations leveled by Slovak Prime Minister robert Fico. Fico, without providing concrete evidence, alleged that the Georgian Legion, alongside the Ukrainian initiative “Mir Ukraine,” financed Ukrainian counterintelligence through recent protests in Slovakia.
These claims have been vehemently refuted by Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR). In a resolute statement, the GUR categorically denied any involvement in Slovak protests and asserted that they have no unit known as the “Georgian National Legion.”
The GUR further clarified that the Georgian Legion, a multinational unit actively fighting on the Ukrainian front, is not engaged in any hybrid activities within the European Union. Regarding Fico’s accusations against Mamuki Mamulashvili, the leader of the Georgian Legion, the GUR stated that mamulashvili is unaffiliated with Ukrainian intelligence and has not received any tasks or instructions from them.
“This person terminated his contract with the International Legion of the GUR MO Ukraine in April 2023 and did not resume it,” the statement clarified.
The GUR emphasized its ongoing cooperation and communication with NATO allies and urged European politicians to exercise obligation, avoiding unfounded accusations that could fuel antagonistic propaganda.
The accusations come amidst large-scale protests in Slovakia against Fico’s government. Fico himself has expressed concerns about a potential “Maidan” scenario in Slovakia, accusing Ukraine of involvement in the unrest.
What’s at Stake?
Natalia Ivanova, a Ukrainian analyst specializing in international relations, sheds light on the potential impact of these accusations:
“These accusations, irrespective of their veracity, aim to sow discord and undermine the unity of Ukraine’s international support base,” Ivanova explains. “They seek to paint Ukraine as an aggressor, attempting to interfere in the internal affairs of other nations. Such narratives, if allowed to take hold, could have a detrimental effect on the solidarity and support that Ukraine so desperately needs at this critical juncture.”
Ukraine Denies Involvement in Slovak Protests, Condemns Allegations as ‘Disinformation’
Tensions are high in Slovakia following recent protests that have targeted Prime Minister Robert fico. Adding fuel to the fire, Fico has publicly accused the Ukrainian government of orchestrating the demonstrations and even implicated the Georgian Legion, a group of foreign fighters supporting Ukraine, in alleged financing of Ukrainian counterintelligence.
to shed light on these inflammatory claims, we spoke with Natalia Ivanova, spokesperson for the Main Intelligence directorate (GUR) of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense.
“The accusations made by Prime Minister Fico are fully unfounded and lack any credible evidence.The GUR categorically denies any involvement in the Slovakian protests,” stated Ivanova firmly. “These allegations appear to be an attempt to deflect attention from the prime minister’s own controversial policies and sow discord between ukraine and its European allies.”
Fico’s accusations specifically targeted the Georgian Legion and a Ukrainian initiative called “Mir Ukraine” as entities involved infinancing Ukrainian counterintelligence through the protests.
Ivanova addressed these claims head-on. “The GUR has no unit called the ‘Georgian National Legion’,” she clarified.”Furthermore, the Georgian Legion is actively engaged in combat on the Ukrainian front and is not involved in any hybrid activities within the European Union. Regarding Mamuki Mamulashvili, the leader of the Georgian Legion, we confirm that he is not affiliated with Ukrainian intelligence and has not received any tasks or instructions from us. In fact, Mr.Mamulashvili terminated his contract with the international legion of the GUR MO Ukraine in april 2023 and did not resume it.”
When asked how Ukraine viewed these accusations in the context of its relationship with Slovakia and the wider European Union, Ivanova expressed deep concern.
“These unfounded accusations are deeply concerning,” she said. “They represent a perilous escalation in disinformation campaigns aimed at destabilizing Ukraine and undermining our relationships with our allies. We urge European politicians to exercise duty and avoid making such baseless accusations, which can only serve to fuel antagonistic propaganda and further complicate an already challenging situation.”
Despite these allegations, Ivanova remains confident in Ukraine’s continued support from its allies.
“We are confident that our genuine partners understand the gravity of the situation and will not be swayed by unfounded allegations,” she stated. “We continue to work closely with NATO allies and value their unwavering support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
These accusations come at a sensitive time for Ukraine, as it continues to defend itself against the Russian invasion. The allegations have the potential to create friction within the European Union, which has been largely united in its support for Ukraine. It remains to be seen how these accusations will impact Ukraine’s relationship with Slovakia and other European nations.
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What evidence does Natalia Ivanova provide to support Ukraine’s denial of involvement in the Slovakian protests?
Ukraine Denies Slovak Protests Interference
Tensions are high between Ukraine and Slovakia following allegations made by Slovak Prime Minister Robert fico claiming that Ukraine is behind recent protests targeting his government. Adding to the controversy, Fico has even accused the Ukrainian government of funneling money to Slovakian protestors through the Georgian Legion, a group of foreign fighters currently fighting alongside Ukraine. To gain clarity on these contentious accusations, we spoke with Natalia Ivanova, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR).
An Exclusive Interview
Archyde News: Ms. Ivanova, Prime Minister Fico has publicly accused Ukraine of orchestrating and financing anti-government protests in Slovakia. What is Ukraine’s official response to these serious allegations?
Natalia Ivanova: The accusations made by Prime Minister Fico are entirely unfounded and lack any credible evidence. The GUR categorically denies any involvement in the Slovakian protests. It seems like a desperate attempt to deflect attention from his own unpopular policies and create divisions within the European Union.
Archyde News: Fico specifically named the Georgian Legion and a Ukrainian initiative called “Mir ukraine” as being involved in financing Slovakian counterintelligence. How would you address these specific claims?
Natalia Ivanova: Let me be very clear: The GUR has no unit called the “Georgian National Legion.” Moreover, the Georgian Legion is actively engaged in combat on the Ukrainian front and has absolutely no involvement in any hybrid activities within the European Union. Regarding Mamuki Mamulashvili, the leader of the Georgian legion, he is not affiliated with our intelligence services and has not received any tasks or instructions from us. Actually, Mr.Mamulashvili terminated his contract with the International Legion of the GUR MO Ukraine in April 2023 and has not resumed it.
Archyde News: Given the sensitive nature of these allegations,how do you believe they will impact Ukraine’s relationship with Slovakia and the broader European Union?
Natalia Ivanova: These unfounded accusations are deeply concerning. They represent a dangerous escalation of disinformation campaigns aimed at destabilizing Ukraine and undermining our relationship with our allies. we urge European politicians to exercise responsibility and refrain from making such baseless accusations, which only serve to fuel antagonistic propaganda and complicate an already challenging situation.
Archyde News: Despite these challenges, Ukraine remains committed to its defense and continues to rely on its international support. What message do you have for those who remain steadfast allies of Ukraine?
Natalia Ivanova: We are deeply grateful for the unwavering support of our genuine partners. we believe that they understand the gravity of the situation and will not be swayed by these unfounded accusations. We remain dedicated to working closely with NATO allies and upholding the principles of democracy and freedom.
Archyde News: Ms. Ivanova, thank you for your time and for shedding light on these notable issues.
To our readers: This situation highlights the vital role of critically evaluating information and relying on credible sources, especially during times of heightened tensions.
