BRATISLAVA – In a controversial statement, Slovak MEP Branislav Ondruš (Hlas-SD) declared on Sunday that the United States is no longer a reliable ally, but rather a rival—perhaps even an enemy—of the European Union. Speaking during the political talk show O 5 minút 12 on STVR, Ondruš referenced past comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who once labeled the EU a “foe” in relation to trade.
“We must admit that we need a paradigm shift in our economic policy,” Ondruš stated. “It’s time for Europe to stop assuming it should manufacture for the rest of the world.”
Ondruš emphasized the need for greater protection of EU producers, encouraging local production and reduced dependency on foreign markets. He also called for broader global engagement, suggesting deeper talks with countries like China, Russia, and members of BRICS.
Meanwhile, MEP Miriam Lexmann (KDH) countered that the U.S. Republican administration sees China as distorting the global market through espionage and intellectual property theft. She claimed Washington expects Europe to take a tougher stance on China in line with shared security and economic interests.
“Americans expect us to stand with them against China. These are the clear expectations,” said Lexmann.
MEP Erik Kaliňák (Smer-SD) defended former Slovak PM Robert Fico, highlighting his talks with Elon Musk about potential Tesla investments and the deployment of Starlink in Slovakia.
On the economic front, MEP Ľudovít Ódor (Progressive Slovakia) warned that the current Slovak government is strangling economic growth through high taxes and burdensome regulations. He urged the development of automotive investment clusters and reforms in education to support industrial innovation.
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