Who can stop Slovakian strongman’s comeback?

Slovakia may not be one of the largest countries in Europe, but the upcoming elections might cast a giant ballot of influence in the EU. Young, liberal Progressive Slovakia (PS) is going against a Kremlin-friendly ex-prime minister Robert Fico and his party Smer. Having a pro-Russian, conspiracy-loving, anti-migration candidate is nothing new in global and European politics. But how do you handle a hot and heavy campaigning period with a fragmented political landscape if your opponent is the country’s most famous and trusted politician?

Slovakia will vote for a new parliament in early elections on September 30. While the campaign season officially started a few weeks ago, the foundations of these elections’ most probable outcome have been laid down at least a year ago.