Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico confirmed accepting the resignation of his National Security Adviser, Miroslav Lajčák, on Saturday via a video message. Lajčák’s departure follows the recent release of three million documents related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein by the US Department of Justice.
Documents reviewed by Slovak media indicated that Lajčák, while serving as Foreign Minister in 2018, exchanged messages with Epstein regarding women and a forthcoming meeting with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. The exchanges included lighthearted discussions about obtaining access to women and a request for a specific t-shirt featuring Lavrov.
While the released files reportedly do not allege any criminal wrongdoing by Lajčák, the nature of the communications has prompted scrutiny regarding his associations. Lajčák initially denied discussing women with Epstein upon the files’ release on Friday, according to reports from Slovak media outlets.
Lajčák reportedly stated his decision to step down was motivated by a desire to prevent political damage to Prime Minister Fico’s administration. Fico characterized the public reaction to Lajčák’s association with Epstein as politically motivated criticism directed at his own government.
Lajčák possessed significant diplomatic experience, having served in four Slovak governments, including as Foreign Minister, and recently held the role of EU Special Representative for the Western Balkans. His tenure spanned multiple administrations, three of which were led by Fico.
The broader release of Epstein’s files has provided new details on the financier’s connections to numerous high-profile global figures, including business leaders and European royalty. These disclosures continue to generate international attention regarding the networks Epstein cultivated.
The immediate implication for Bratislava centers on the stability of the security apparatus and the perception of its diplomatic corps following the departure of a senior official under such circumstances.
