The article says that a crowdfunding campaign in Slovakia aimed at purchasing artillery shells for Ukraine has successfully surpassed its initial target of €1 million within just 48 hours of its launch. This initiative arose in response to the Slovak government's refusal to join a Czech-led effort to supply ammunition to Ukrainian forces. Otto Simko, a 99-year-old Holocaust survivor and veteran of the 1944 Slovak National Uprising, played a pivotal role in kickstarting the campaign, emphasizing the need to confront Russian aggression.
"I lived through the Second World War. I fought in it. I can tell you there was no point negotiating with Hitler and there is no point negotiating with Putin." — Otto Simko, Holocaust survivor and veteran.
According to what is written in the article, Simko highlighted the historical lessons from World War II, asserting that negotiating with totalitarian regimes like those of Hitler and Putin is futile. His sentiments reflect a broader discontent among Slovaks who oppose Prime Minister Robert Fico's stance on military aid to Ukraine. Fico's government has pledged not to send additional ammunition, arguing that arming Ukraine only prolongs the conflict.
The article further details how the crowdfunding campaign has galvanized support from over 32,000 donors, raising more than €2 million by Friday afternoon. This grassroots effort serves as a means for Slovaks to express their dissent against their government's policies. Zuzana Izsakova from the "Peace to Ukraine" initiative noted that the campaign symbolizes societal resistance against Fico's foreign policy. The funds raised will be directed towards the Czech government's initiative to procure ammunition for Ukraine, showcasing a significant shift in public sentiment regarding military support.
