Diplomatic Presence Restored in Eastern Slovakia
Prešov, Slovakia – On Friday, December 5, 2025, Ukraine officially reopened its Consulate General in Prešov, Slovakia, marking the end of an 11-year hiatus. The grand opening ceremony was a significant diplomatic event, attended by Andrii Sybiha, the Foreign Minister of Ukraine, and Juraj Blanár, the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic.
The Consulate General had ceased operations in November 2014. Its re-establishment is aimed at strengthening Ukraine's diplomatic presence and providing essential services to the substantial Ukrainian community in eastern Slovakia.
Addressing the Needs of the Ukrainian Diaspora
The reopening of the consulate is primarily driven by the need to support the large number of Ukrainian citizens residing in Slovakia, particularly in the eastern regions. Foreign Minister Sybiha highlighted that approximately 40,000 Ukrainian citizens live in the Košice and Prešov self-governing regions. Across Slovakia, official statistics indicate that between 160,000 to 170,000 Ukrainians currently reside in the country.
Minister Sybiha emphasized the consulate's role, stating, 'For Ukraine, one of the priorities is to secure the rights of our compatriots, provide them with necessary services, make their lives easier, and be closer to them. It also represents a new point of cooperation between our two countries.' The consulate will focus on providing consular services, promoting trade and investments, and fostering cultural diplomacy.
Bilateral Cooperation and Solidarity
The ceremony also underscored the strong bilateral relations and solidarity between Ukraine and Slovakia, especially in the context of ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine. Slovak Foreign Minister Blanár expressed his country's unwavering support, stating, 'After the Russian Federation attacked Ukraine, Slovaks opened their arms, and in the early period more than 2,000,000 refugees from Ukraine passed through Slovakia. Many decided to stay, and Slovaks generously provided their homes so they could live through this difficult time in at least dignified conditions.'
Minister Sybiha extended his gratitude to the Slovak government for its support, including participation in the coalition for civilian shelters and the provision of energy equipment. The event also included the ceremonial unveiling of a plaque dedicated to Ukrainian philosopher Hryhoriy Skovoroda and the opening of a Ukrainian Saturday school, further cementing cultural ties.
Future Prospects
The re-establishment of the Consulate General in Prešov is seen as a crucial step in expanding Ukraine's diplomatic presence and enhancing its ability to care for its citizens abroad. Both ministers expressed optimism that this move would further develop relations between Ukraine and Slovakia, fostering pragmatic, mutually beneficial, and good-neighborly cooperation.
5 Comments
Manolo Noriega
It's good to see Slovakia expressing solidarity and providing a home for so many Ukrainian refugees. Yet, the long-term integration challenges for such a large population will require much more than just a consulate.
Fuerza
While any step towards stronger bilateral relations is welcome, it's crucial to acknowledge the political complexities. Slovakia's government has had fluctuating stances on Ukraine, so consistent, genuine support remains to be seen.
Manolo Noriega
Great to see Ukraine and Slovakia strengthening their vital partnership.
Ongania
Focus on winning the war, not opening consulates far from the front.
Manolo Noriega
While it's positive that Ukrainians in Slovakia will receive better services, it's also a stark reminder of how many have been displaced. The focus should remain on ending the conflict that caused this diaspora.