Bratislava – The Hlas-SD party reaffirms its commitment to ensuring Slovakia remains aligned with the European Union and NATO. This statement was made by party chairman and Minister of the Interior Matúš Šutaj Eštok on social media following Prime Minister Robert Fico’s comments advocating for neutrality during current global tensions, as reported by TASR.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Fico suggested that amidst rising arms trade and discussions of war in Europe, Slovakia could benefit from adopting a stance of neutrality. He clarified that the decision was not solely in his authority. During a discussion with President Peter Pellegrini concerning increased defense spending, Fico remarked on the European Union’s ambiguous response to conflicts in Gaza and Israel-Iran tensions, while critiquing its involvement in Ukraine which he views as an escalation toward war.
Šutaj Eštok emphasized that all top constitutional officials, including the Prime Minister, have endorsed a memorandum reinforcing Slovakia’s integration within the European Union and NATO. He noted that the government’s program framework defines Slovakia’s living and security parameters within these alliances. He highlighted the benefits of EU membership, stating it has contributed to stability and prosperity in Slovakia, allowing for the development of infrastructure such as new schools and roads, and NATO membership serves as a protective security measure for the nation.
In response to Fico’s comments on neutrality, President Pellegrini argued that such a stance would likely incur greater costs for Slovakia compared to its current NATO membership.
“Adopting neutrality implies a lack of participation in major international organizations, which would necessitate self-reliance for security. This could escalate defense spending to levels we cannot sustain, potentially reaching seven, eight, or ten percent,” he explained.
The opposition parties PS, KDH, and SaS recognize the need for gradual increases in defense spending but advocate for the establishment of an accountable expert group to oversee these expenditures, with representation from the opposition. This was discussed following a round table meeting with President Pellegrini, Prime Minister Fico, leaders of coalition parties, and Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák.
Michal Šimečka, leader of the largest opposition party PS, criticized Fico’s neutrality comments as outrageous. “I sought clarification from the Prime Minister, but received no response. Such a position poses a security risk to Slovakia,” Šimečka remarked. (June 17)
“All three highest constitutional officials, including the Prime Minister, signed a memorandum on the clear anchoring of Slovakia in the European Union and NATO. The program declaration of this government determines our living and security space in the EU and NATO.” Matúš Šutaj Eštok
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