NATO denies accusations of electoral interference
NATO Secretary General Stoltenberg answered questions at the joint press conference held in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, after meeting with Slovak Prime Minister Ludovit Odor.
Responding to accusations by Robert Fico, the leader of the main opposition in Slovakia, that NATO is trying to interfere with the early elections to be held on September 30 with information campaigns, Stoltenberg said: “NATO conducts different campaigns of information in different allied countries. This is normal. We have done it many times in many countries, including Slovakia, not so long ago.” saying.
Stoltenberg stated that they organize transparent information activities to inform the public about NATO’s activities and position, and that they carry it out in coordination with national authorities.
Emphasizing that NATO exists to protect democracy, freedoms and openness, Stoltenberg said: “We never interfere in internal political matters. We exist to help each country preserve its own democratic process.” he said.
ODOR REACTION TO THE LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION
Prime Minister Odor, who is the head of the technocratic government that will rule Slovakia until the elections, said that such information activities are carried out in all countries, that this is not objectionable and secret, and that the European Union (EU) carry out similar activities.
“I don’t see any reason to think that NATO wants to interfere in our elections,” Odor said. After all, we have democracy and everyone can have their own opinion.” he used the phrase.
Referring to opposition leader Fico, Odor said: “It is quite rare for someone to say they are a NATO supporter and do everything that is against NATO.” saying.
Robert Fico criticized NATO’s public relations campaign, arguing that the aim was to increase the number of Slovaks supporting Ukraine against Russia and to interfere in elections.
Fico, who served as prime minister in Slovakia between 2012 and 2018, wants to cut support for Ukraine and opposes the tightening of sanctions against Russia, especially in the energy field. (AA)