FICO: HIGH FUEL PRICES SHOW UNION'S INABILITY TO ACT

BRATISLAVA, SEPTEMBER 22 /SRNA/ - Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico criticized the EU for its passive stance in addressing high fuel prices, describing it as a sign of the Union's inability to effectively coordinate joint measures.

"Member states are expected to make up for astronomical fuel prices at the expense of healthcare, education, the pension system, as well as the economy and the well-being of citizens," Fico said in a video address on X.

According to him, Brussels' actions regarding the investment of hundreds of billions of euros in the conflict in Ukraine, while calling for austerity measures for its citizens under the threat of sanctions, are absurd and cynical.

"The EU has no influence over the outcome of wars around the world. The Union has neither the strength nor the authority to stop or prevent any conflict, yet it is paying for the continuation of the war in Ukraine, which directly harms it," Fico said.

He blamed the sharp rise in petrol and diesel prices on the greed of oil companies and refineries, as well as geopolitical tensions, including the war in Iran and instability across the Middle East.

Fico called for extraordinary meetings of the European Commission to be held to develop solutions at the EU-wide level and announced that the Slovak Government would decide tomorrow on further steps regarding fuel prices.