Slovak Defence Ministry faces scrutiny over infrastructure spending

Slovak political leaders are clashing over the state of the nation's military infrastructure and the allocation of the Ministry of Defence budget. Tomáš Valášek, Vice-Chairman of Progresívne Slovensko, accused Defence Minister Robert Kaliňák of neglecting military barracks and equipment while prioritizing other projects. Valášek cited soldier testimonies describing dilapidated conditions, including moldy walls, dampness, and leaking carpets, claiming that hundreds of millions of euros have been diverted to non-defense projects.

Minister Robert Kaliňák has rejected these allegations, calling them lies. During a press conference, Kaliňák presented photographs to argue that many infrastructure issues have already been addressed. He noted that the ministry manages over 3,000 objects and spends nearly 200 million euros annually on infrastructure, with 185 million euros earmarked for reconstructions next year. Kaliňák specifically defended the renovation of the former Hviezda dormitory, known as ‘Kukurica,’ stating it represented only five percent of the annual modernization budget. He maintained that all ministry expenditures, including those for hospitals, remain relevant to the defense sector.