On Thursday 24 March 2022, exactly one month from the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, President Čaputová called upon the people to resist the illusion that the war is none of our business.   

In the president’s opinion, the events of 24 February have united the majority of the citizens of Slovakia.  “Let us not lose this solidarity, even when we feel the natural fatigue from helping. We have been united by humanity and we can build on it, even if we have different opinions on many matters.” 

The president reminded us that the primary shock and fear was quickly transformed into the unseen solidarity and help of Slovaks and others citizens of Slovakia. She addressed special thanks to the many non-governmental organizations, charity and civic initiatives and thousands of volunteers. In her opinion, anyone who has previously questioned or even attacked the third sector, should look to their consciences. 

She emphasized that neither our armies nor other armies can help Ukraine directly. “We do not want to start World War III. But our neighbour has the right to defend itself and we cannot abandon them. The Ukrainians are fighting a justified war for their sovereignty and self-determination. As the Slovak nation, we should understand this when looking at our own history.”

According to the president, history is being written these days and weeks. “I am proud that Slovakia is standing on the right side by helping Ukraine.  Let us resist the thought that we should focus on of our own matters, that the war is none of our business and that we should not irritate Russia. Putin himself has already shown several times that if he wants conflict, he can provide a pretence. Even if we look away and stick our head in the sand, the war in our neighbouring country will not disappear. This month has shown us that peace and security cannot be taken for granted and are not free.  We can handle the consequences of the war, we must also ensure a more secure world for our children. This is the price we are paying for a senseless and unprovoked war. One month has passed since the outbreak of the war. Our efforts this month, at home by helping refugees from Ukraine, and internationally, assure me that we are doing everything necessary to achieve the most important goal – peace.”