On Monday, President Pellegrini honored 35 high school medalists in international subject competitions. Among them was Simon Omanik, who received a bronze medal in a Central European mathematics contest.
Omanik shook hands with Education Minister Tomas Drucker but refused a handshake from Pellegrini—wearing a suit pinned with a bow in Ukrainian colors to signal his opposition to the president’s alleged “anti-Ukraine stance.”
Mixed reactions
Prime Minister Robert Fico ridiculed the student’s conduct, saying Omanik “needs three slaps” and branding him “immature.”
The attorney general likewise criticized the teen for “disrespect,” while members of Pellegrini’s Hlas-Social Democracy party portrayed the incident as “opposition-led hysteria.”
Others rallied behind Omanik, including ex-Defense Minister Jaroslav Nad, who praised his “courage,” and former Prime Minister Igor Matovic, who called the 19-year-old “a king.”
Pellegrini said he “respects” Omanik’s choice but stressed that he personally greets everyone he meets.
Education Minister Drucker expressed regret, insisting even political adversaries should extend basic courtesy.
Pellegrini, in office since April 2024, has aligned with Prime Minister Fico in rejecting arms support for Ukraine, fueling criticism at home and abroad.
Fico recently blasted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for halting Russian gas transit through Ukrainian pipelines, threatening to veto EU aid for Kyiv if deliveries are not resumed.
Fico’s overtures to Moscow—highlighted by his December meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin—have also provoked discontent among Slovaks.
Last week, thousands demonstrated in Bratislava, urging the government to pivot away from pro-Russia policies and reaffirm Slovakia’s Western alliances.
(jh/gs)
Source: TVN24