The United States and Slovakia are set to deepen their collaboration on the civil use of nuclear energy, aiming to diminish Slovakia's reliance on Russian energy sources. This announcement was made by Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio during their meeting in Bratislava. On January 16, Fico had signed an agreement in Washington regarding this cooperation, which is poised to develop into a concrete contract by next year involving the American company Westinghouse for the construction of a fifth nuclear reactor in Slovakia.

In addition to economic discussions regarding nuclear energy, the talks also encompassed mutual commitments to bolster NATO's military presence. Slovakia's willingness to contribute to this military enhancement includes ongoing procurement of American F-16 fighter jets. The alignment between Slovakia and the United States illustrates a strategic effort to strengthen NATO alliances and reduce vulnerability to external energy pressures, particularly from Russia.

Rubio's visit to Bratislava followed his attendance at the Munich Security Conference and is part of a broader effort to reinforce transatlantic relations. The discussions reflect a geopolitical context where European nations are actively seeking alternatives to Russian energy in light of recent tensions and aim to increase their energy security while also enhancing military cooperation with the US, highlighting the interconnectedness of energy and defense policies in contemporary international relations.