German chancellor warns of EU conflict over Slovakia, Hungary
The German Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, warned that if Slovakia's and Hungary's current positions remain unchanged, the EU will inevitably face conflict with them. "We cannot allow the decisions of the entire EU to be dictated by a small minority," he remarked, further suggesting the potential withholding of EU funds from Slovakia should it continue to pursue policies divergent from EU objectives, particularly in relation to Russia.
Speaking on Monday at the European Forum WDR, Chancellor Merz reiterated that if Slovakia and Hungary's attitudes do not evolve, conflict with the EU will be unavoidable. "We cannot allow the decisions of the entire EU to be dictated by a small minority," Merz asserted.
Merz highlighted that both countries possess veto rights, enabling them to obstruct or at least dilute upcoming EU sanctions against Russia. He explained that Brussels has mechanisms to exert pressure on both governments, such as initiating proceedings related to breaches of the rule of law and potentially reducing EU funding.
"The chancellor's remarks are unacceptable in modern Europe," declared Robert Fico. He argued, "if anyone seeks to impose a singular mandatory viewpoint, it marks the end of democracy in Europe."
"We cannot be threatened with repercussions for non-compliance," added the Prime Minister.
He stressed that Slovakia acts in its own national interest and assured that there is nothing in the Slovak Republic's policy that constitutes a breach of the EU's rule of law.
Statement from the Slovak Ministry of Foreign Affairs: Opposition to lifting the veto
The Slovak Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement echoing this sentiment. The head of the department, Juraj Blanar, insisted that his country is a full-fledged EU member that does not simply conform to the preferences of larger nations but strives for consensus.
"For this reason, the Slovak Republic has consistently emphasised its opposition to lifting the veto and replacing unanimous voting with qualified majority, which could disadvantage certain countries," Blanar declared.
