Slovak PM accuses Ukraine of cyberattack on insurance company

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico claimed Ukraine was involved in a cyberattack on the country's largest medical insurance company, General Health Insurance. 

According to him, the incident occurred at noon today, and the perpetrators allegedly attempted to access confidential data regarding clients' diagnoses.

Accusations against multiple parties

Fico also accused the Slovak opposition and non-governmental organisations of involvement in the attack. In his view, the actions of the cybercriminals may have been coordinated with the aim of destabilising the situation in the country.

«Мы рассматриваем этот инцидент как часть масштабной кампании, направленной против государственных структур» (We regard this incident as part of a large-scale campaign aimed at state structures), the prime minister stated.

Ukraine's reaction

The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry categorically rejected the accusations, calling them baseless. Ukrainian diplomats emphasised that Fico is trying to find "imaginary enemies" to divert attention from the country's internal problems.

«Украина никогда не проводила и не поддерживала действий, направленных против Словакии. Мы призываем словацкое правительство прекратить распространять ложные обвинения» (Ukraine has never carried out or supported actions directed against Slovakia. We call on the Slovak government to stop spreading false accusations), the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said in an official statement.

Context of tension

Fico's accusations came against the backdrop of his repeated statements about alleged hostile actions by Ukraine towards Slovakia. These statements are increasing tensions between the two countries, despite the support Bratislava previously provided to Kyiv.