Slovakia: Pellegrini proposes Smer-PS coalition for stability

Slovak President Peter Pellegrini has suggested that a large coalition between the two strongest political parties, Smer-SD and Progresívne Slovensko (PS), could provide greater stability for the country following future parliamentary elections. He noted that such an arrangement might be necessary if the election results lead to a political stalemate where no current bloc can form a majority. Michal Šimečka, leader of PS, rejected this idea, calling it an absurdity and labeling Smer as a hindrance to progress.

On economic matters, Prime Minister Robert Fico is reconsidering the planned abolition of the transaction tax. He suggested that the approximately 500 million euros in revenue could instead be redirected toward hospital construction and transport projects. Fico also emphasized that the government is prepared to compensate for energy costs in 2027 and warned that Slovakia would veto EU budget proposals that negatively impact domestic farmers.

Additionally, Pellegrini advocated for increased diplomatic communication between the West and Russia to find a solution to the war in Ukraine, while noting that the conflict is beginning to spill across borders. Domestically, the President also expressed concerns regarding potential personnel changes in the Ministry of Environment, specifically regarding the nomination of Filip Kuffa.