Matovic Apologises to Ukraine for Joke about Zakarpattia

Prime Minister Igor Matovic (OLaNO) on Facebook on Thursday apologised for his recent statement about the Zakarpattia region, admitting that it was improper. "Slovakias stance on Ukraines territorial integrity has always been very clear. Observing international law is essential. I apologise to all Ukrainians for my improper reaction that could have undermined their justified efforts," wrote the premier. Matovic, when asked on Tuesday by an anchor of Radio Expres whether he perhaps promised something to Russia in return for purchasing the Sputnik V vaccine, said in a joking manner: "Zakarpattia". He shortly afterwards added: "I didn't promise anything ... I was just attempting to secure a vaccine."