Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has called for new leadership in the European Union, stating that the bloc requires more than just cosmetic changes to address its current issues. In a video posted on Facebook, Fico compared the EU to a massage parlor, suggesting that changing the staff is necessary to fix its problems. He specifically advocated for the removal of the EU’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas.
Fico described the EU as being in a systemic crisis, citing its declining competitiveness, unresolved illegal migration, and lack of independent foreign policy as key areas of concern. He expressed his opposition to Kallas, praising his party lawmakers for backing a no-confidence vote in European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. According to Fico, the EU can only emerge from its “deep crisis” with “new leadership and new ideas.”
The Slovak prime minister’s comments come amid growing discontent within the EU over Kallas’ handling of major international issues. Her performance has reportedly received little support from colleagues in the European Commission. Fico listed the EU’s key failings, including its overly ambitious climate goals, unresolved migration issues, and inability to pursue an independent foreign policy.
Fico emphasized that he is in favor of the EU but will not support it unconditionally, criticizing the domestic opposition as “anti-Slovak and purely pro-Brussels.” He also pointed out that the bloc cannot be led by individuals who are not taken seriously by global players, referencing US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s refusal to meet with Kallas.
This is not the first time Fico has called for Kallas’ removal, having previously stated that the EU leadership is only capable of “hating Russia” without offering viable solutions to ongoing crises. Kallas is known for her hardline anti-Russian stance, and Fico has accused Brussels of a selective approach to imposing sanctions, targeting Moscow over the Ukraine conflict while not taking similar action against Israel over its military campaign in Gaza.
The Slovak prime minister’s comments highlight the growing divisions within the EU and the need for new leadership to address the bloc’s pressing issues. As the EU continues to face challenges, it remains to be seen whether Fico’s calls for change will be heeded.
