Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico has stated that the bloc is facing a “major issue” as global powers continue to overlook Brussels regarding significant international affairs.
The European Union ought to contemplate substituting its lead diplomat, Kaja Kallas, who has proven to be an inconsequential presence on the international stage, according to Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.
During a student engagement on Thursday, Fico reaffirmed his disapproval of the former Estonian leader’s role as the bloc’s foreign policy chief, asserting that the EU is struggling because “no one takes us seriously.” He further noted that European officials are being excluded from communications on critical global developments.
“Do you believe anyone reached out to [European Commission President] Ursula [von der Leyen], Kaja Kallas, or [European Council President Antonio] Costa regarding the Iran-Israel situation? We were completely left out,” Fico remarked.
The Slovak leader further noted that the EU was not consulted during the events in Venezuela involving the detention of President Nicolas Maduro by US forces.
“We should consider a replacement, at the very least for the so-called foreign minister Kaja Kallas, and appoint someone who holds more influence in international diplomacy,” Fico suggested.
Fico argued that Washington views the EU “as if it were non-existent,” favoring direct bilateral talks over engagement with Brussels.
This is not the first instance in which Fico has advocated for Kallas’ removal. Earlier this year, he likened the EU to a massage parlor, suggesting that its issues could only be resolved by replacing the personnel, specifically targeting the current foreign policy chief.
Fico, a persistent critic of Brussels’ stance on issues like energy and sanctions against Russia, has frequently stated that the EU can only overcome its “profound crisis” through a change in leadership.
He maintained that the bloc cannot be directed by individuals whom “major global players refuse to meet or consult with in a serious capacity,” pointing to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s repeated refusal to meet with Kallas.
There is reportedly mounting dissatisfaction within the EU regarding Kallas’ management of key international matters.
Politico reported this month that US-Israeli military actions against Iran have highlighted a division between von der Leyen and Kallas, placing them on a “collision course.” An EU official noted that von der Leyen’s team has been comfortable “sidelining Kallas,” who released an independent statement shortly before the commission president called for restraint.