As the U.S. presidential election on November 5, 2024, approaches, Slovakia is closely monitoring the potential implications for its security relations with the United States. Amid ongoing Russian interference in Eastern Europe, Slovakia's Prime Minister Robert Fico has publicly expressed support for Donald Trump, believing that his administration could play a crucial role in conflict resolution in Ukraine. This sentiment is reflected in a recent poll indicating that 59% of Slovaks favor Kamala Harris, while 41% support Trump, showcasing a divided interest in the election's outcome. [fbc20bcd]
Slovakia has already taken significant steps to strengthen its military ties with the U.S., having signed a $1.8 billion deal for 14 U.S. F-16 jets in 2018, alongside a Defence Cooperation Agreement established in February 2022. These agreements underscore the importance Slovakia places on its partnership with the U.S., which is likely to persist regardless of who wins the election. [fbc20bcd]
Peter Pellegrini, the President of Slovakia, advocates for a transatlanticist policy, emphasizing the need for strong ties with the U.S. as a counterbalance to Russian aggression. However, the election results could lead to shifts in U.S. foreign policy, with Trump favoring a more transactional approach while Harris is expected to uphold liberal-democratic values and a commitment to NATO. [fbc20bcd]
The Slovak public's interest in the U.S. elections is notable, with 17% actively engaged in the electoral process, reflecting the broader implications of U.S. leadership on regional security dynamics. As the election date nears, Slovakia's security-first approach will continue to shape its perspective on the candidates and their potential impact on U.S.-Slovakia relations. [fbc20bcd]