In Slovakia, activists plan to submit a petition to the president calling for a referendum on lifting sanctions against Russia.
The petition has gathered over 450,000 signatures, according to Matúš Aleksa, chairman of the civil association “Brother for Brother.” He stated that the signature collection has been completed, as the number of signatories far exceeds the required amount.
Aleksa announced on social media that the petition will be submitted on March 11 and expressed gratitude to the citizens of Slovakia who supported it, as well as to the organizations and media outlets that provided assistance. In December 2024, Aleksa reported that by that time, more than 361,000 people had signed the petition, already surpassing the required number of signatures for holding a referendum.
The initiative was driven by citizens’ dissatisfaction with the economic problems caused by the sanctions and restrictions, as well as the limitation of Russian culture. Activists argue that the sanctions harm not only Russia but also Slovakia itself.
To hold a referendum in Slovakia, at least 350,000 signatures must be collected. With a population of around 5.5 million, Slovakia can initiate a referendum if this requirement is met.
