Danko: Gaspar's Words Were Twisted, We Need EU Reform

(STVR, 'O 5 minut 12', January 19) The words of House Vice-chair Tibor Gaspar (Smer-SD) regarding Slovakia's potential exit from the European Union (EU) and NATO were twisted, Andrej Danko (SNS) stated on STVR's discussion programme 'O 5 minut 12' (Five Minutes to Twelve) on Sunday, while opposition MP and SaS leader Branislav Groehling reiterated his desire to confirm Slovakia's anchoring in European structures through a constitutional amendment. "The EU brings us countless benefits, but if Brussels was to question our need for gas transit through Ukraine and force expensive liquefied gas on us, or if Brussels was to defend only the interests of Western countries, it is natural that such a discussion would arise," adding that, in his opinion, an EU reform is needed. Groehling once again criticised Danko's trip to Moscow, saying it brought nothing to Slovak people. "Right now, there's disorder in the home ownership registry, and people are worried about their properties. And no one is addressing this in any way, and Mr. Danko is showcasing videos from Moscow," he stated. Danko also responded to a question about the criticism from ambassadors of Western countries regarding his statement that they are creating a conflict between Slovaks, Czechs, Poles, and Hungarians. "I stand by every word. For the Germans and the French, we are slaves. The Germans are declining because they are dependent on the United States. It was a huge historical mistake that when the Russians left, the American troops didn't leave Europe as well," he said. The two MPs also touched on gas prices. The leader of SaS criticised Danko, saying that the halt in gas transfer from Ukraine could have been anticipated, just like other EU countries did. Danko stated that gas is four times more expensive and blamed the President of Ukraine for its price increase. lin