Brussels/Bratislava – Slovak Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák (Smer-SD) expressed concerns that if Ukraine were to use long-range missiles, it would escalate tensions further. He made this statement following the EU Council meeting on Foreign Affairs and Defense in Brussels, as reported by TASR.
Kaliňák emphasized that Ukraine was the primary focus of discussions at the meeting and reiterated Slovakia’s stance against allowing the use of long-range missiles aimed at Russian targets. “This would significantly heighten tensions and, crucially, could pull EU or NATO countries into the conflict. Therefore, we view it as a serious issue,” he clarified.
In response to questions about whether ministers acknowledged the thousand days of Russian aggression against Ukraine, Kaliňák noted that there were numerous declarations supporting Ukraine’s victory.
“Had negotiations commenced at the end of 2022, after Ukraine’s recovery of Kherson and Kharkov, the war might not have lasted a thousand days. The EU should have exerted pressure then. Now, as the battlefield situation remains challenging, we find ourselves in a weaker position compared to Russia, making it harder to respond effectively,” he remarked, stressing the importance of avoiding NATO’s involvement in the conflict.
Additionally, Kaliňák brought attention to the delays in unblocking the European Peace Facility (EPF), with Hungary currently stalling the release of 6.6 billion euros intended for Ukraine. He emphasized the need for discussions with Hungary, stating that the newly proposed model for financial contributions is “not particularly appealing or beneficial for us.”
The EU is considering reforms within the EPF that would make financial contributions voluntary rather than mandatory, as is currently required. This change would help bypass Hungary’s veto concerning military aid to Ukraine.
“The European Commission understands how to engage with Hungary and the reasons for the current situation. We can only resolve this through dialogue rather than calls made in various meetings,” he added.
Kaliňák also highlighted discussions regarding investments aimed at strengthening the EU defense industry. “In times of crisis, nations prioritize their own defense to be in a position to assist others,” he explained. He posited that the European defense industry should be developed with this principle in mind, ensuring self-sufficiency in defense needs.
“I proposed a clear distinction between major players in the European defense industry and a separate package for medium and small companies involved in developing new weapon systems or specialized production, allowing them to apply for EU funding,” he stated.
He emphasized that Slovakia’s defense industry is “quite robust” by European standards and possesses “impressive production capacities.” Thus, it is crucial that successful Slovak projects are recognized financially, as this would create new job opportunities and bolster the economy. (November 19th).
“If negotiations had started at the end of 2022, when Ukraine managed to regain Kherson and Kharkov, there would have been no thousand days of war. The EU should have created pressure there.” Robert Kaliňák
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