This week in Slovakia
Slovakia's political landscape is under intense scrutiny this week, with Deputy Speaker Tibor Gašpar warning of potential politically motivated assassinations amid a tense environment where the European Parliament is set to vote on the rule of law in the country. Domestically, headlines focused on a former Smer member receiving a suspended sentence due to government legal changes, alleged payments to a pro-government influencer, and internal coalition dynamics highlighting Prime Minister Fico's power. Meanwhile, Slovakia also engaged in discussions with China regarding investments and direct flights.
About Slovakia
Slovakia, a Central European nation, boasts a rich history, diverse landscapes from the Carpathian Mountains to the Danube River, and a vibrant cultural heritage. As a democracy, it upholds a free press, though the 2018 murder of journalist Jan Kuciak underscored persistent political pressures and media vulnerabilities. The country navigates its post-communist transition while integrating further into the European Union.
Visiting Slovakia
Media landscape
Slovakia's media environment is generally free, but faces growing political pressures and concerns over media ownership concentration. Television remains a primary source of news for a significant portion of the population.
Seek out a variety of news sources, including independent online portals, to gain a comprehensive understanding of Slovak perspectives and issues.
China's growing space ambitions challenge established powers
- China is reportedly increasing its presence and capabilities in space, potentially challenging existing powers. - The article suggests this expansion includes advancements in satellite technology an…
Penta buys Dôvera insurance company; commentary suggests only Haščák has a healthcare plan
- The article discusses the acquisition of the Dôvera insurance company by Penta Investments. - This acquisition is highlighted as the main news of the week, timed for the summer period. - The comment…
Switzerland Joins NATO Ammunition Procurement Initiative
- Switzerland has joined a NATO initiative to procure ammunition. - This move aims to strengthen the country's defense capabilities. - The decision aligns with broader European efforts to bolster mili…
Renting a boat in Croatia can be cheaper than an apartment, tips and prices revealed
- Renting a boat in Croatia can be more affordable than booking an apartment, offering a unique vacation option. - The article provides tips on where to rent boats and popular sailing destinations. - …
Bratislava Airbnb Market Dominated by 'Mega-Hosts' Using Pseudonyms
- An investigation reveals that the short-term rental market in Bratislava, Slovakia, is dominated by a few "mega-hosts" operating under pseudonyms. - Data analysis by the Investigative Center of Ján …
Slovak Government Rejects EU Commission's Corruption Investigation Assessment
- The Slovak government rejects the European Commission's assessment regarding high-level corruption investigations. - The cabinet acknowledges the identified shortcomings and pledges to address them.…
Beyond Rovinj: Discovering Istria's Most Beautiful Towns
- The Istrian peninsula in Croatia offers more than just the popular town of Rovinj. - Several other beautiful towns are worth visiting on the Croatian peninsula. - The article suggests exploring thes…
Ukraine's Defense Minister Umerov ousted; departure seen as 'gift to Moscow'
- Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov's tenure has ended, with his popularity reportedly exceeding that of President Zelenskyy. - The article suggests Umerov's dismissal was a 'gift to Moscow' an…
AI experiment suggests Kafka and Joyce might not have been publishable by machines
- An experiment using artificial intelligence explored the writing styles of literary giants like Kafka and Joyce. - The AI models struggled to replicate the unique nuances of their work, suggesting t…
Support declines for transgender athletes competing by gender identity
- A recent Ipsos poll indicates a decline in public support for transgender athletes competing based on their gender identity. - The survey suggests a growing segment of the population prefers that tr…
Japan Tweaks Imperial Succession Law, But Male Line Remains
- Japan's parliament has amended the imperial succession law. - The new law allows for the adoption of male distant relatives into the imperial family. - However, the law maintains that only men can i…
Kaufland faces strike threat as unions demand better pay
- Kaufland trade union members have declared a strike alert, demanding higher wages and a share in the company's success. - The union is negotiating with the employer regarding collective agreement te…
President: Declaration of Sovereignty Reminds Us Freedom Is Not Guaranteed
- Slovak President Pellegrini marked the 34th anniversary of the Declaration of Sovereignty. - He emphasized that freedom is not a given and requires constant vigilance. - The declaration is a reminde…
Public sector jobs in Slovakia grow, defying austerity promises
- The number of people employed in public administration in Slovakia continues to rise. - Despite the growing public sector workforce, low risk of layoffs is often cited as a benefit. - Prime Minister…
Trump open to Iran diplomacy, but US military continues attacks
- Donald Trump is open to diplomacy with Iran, but warned of expanded attacks if talks fail. - The US military has continued strikes on Iranian targets for five consecutive nights. - Tensions remain h…
U.S. designates Mexican cartels Juárez and Los Viagras as terrorist organizations
- The United States has designated the Juárez Cartel and Los Viagras as foreign terrorist organizations. - This designation targets the financial operations and leadership of these Mexican criminal gr…
Iran Asks Houthis to Prepare Red Sea Route Closure If U.S. Attacks Energy Infrastructure
- Iran has requested the Houthi rebels to prepare for the closure of the Red Sea route. - This action is contingent on the United States launching an attack on Iran's energy infrastructure. - The requ…
Slovakia's Government Silent on Allegations of Russian Drones in Bratislava
- The Slovak state and government officials remain silent on a report about Russian secret services and explosive drones in Bratislava. - The lack of explanation has fueled speculation about the truth…
Slovak universities to offer final internship as graduation option
- Slovak university students will have a new option to complete their studies: a final internship. - This alternative to traditional thesis defense requires practical experience gained at a company. -…
Azerbaijan demands Armenia change constitution before signing peace deal
- Azerbaijan is demanding that Armenia amend its constitution before signing a peace treaty. - Baku specifically criticizes a reference in Armenia's constitution concerning the unification with Nagorn…
Cynical Monster: Why It Is Important to Have a List of Collaborators
- The article discusses the importance of maintaining a list of collaborators, even from their own perspective, suggesting it would be impractical for them if such a list did not exist. - It implies t…
French Parliament approves assisted suicide law
- France's parliament has approved a controversial assisted suicide law. - The law permits terminally ill adults to access lethal medication under strict conditions. - The legislation, supported by Pr…
European Commission approves X's action plan to increase transparency
- The European Commission has approved an action plan for the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to increase transparency. - This plan comes after the platform was fined 120 million euros last…
Why We Should Care How Hungary Cleans Up
- The article questions the relevance and potential dangers of national will when it is manipulated or misdirected. - It suggests that a nation's collective desire can become problematic if not guided…
Five Beautiful Beaches Require Fees or Reservations, Even in Croatia; Access is Regulated in Italy and Spain
- Several popular beaches in Italy and Spain now require entry fees or reservations, even in Croatia, access is regulated. - These five beautiful beaches are inaccessible without payment or prior book…
Cynical monster: Proud of irresponsibility
- The article critiques a recent campaign, describing it as ambiguous and unprecedented. - It suggests the campaign has generated a lack of clarity and potentially highlights irresponsibility. - The a…
Is Compulsory Third-Party Liability Enough for Hail Damage? It's Cheaper, But Watch Out for the Catches
- Basic car insurance (PZP) may not cover damage from hailstorms, despite being cheaper than comprehensive insurance. - Experts advise policyholders to carefully read insurance terms and conditions to…
Untaxed diesel fuel seizure reaches Czech Financial Administration leadership
- Czech customs seized 59,000 liters of untaxed diesel fuel. - An investigation into the seizure reached the leadership of the Financial Administration. - The article explores the connection between t…
Jozef Ráž denies PS claims of misusing postal service for mayoral campaign
- Jozef Ráž denies accusations from the Progressive Slovakia (PS) party regarding the misuse of postal services for his mayoral campaign. - PS claims Ráž sent priority letters that were inadequately m…
Opposition criticizes health insurer merger, warns of monopoly and weakened patient rights
- The Slovak opposition criticizes the planned merger of Dôvera and Union health insurance companies. - Critics argue the merger would create a monopoly and weaken patient protections. - The Progressi…
Bratislava launches PAAS parking system in Lanfranconi, Podhradie
- Bratislava, Slovakia, is launching a new parking system called PAAS in the Lanfranconi and Podhradie areas. - Parking in these zones will require a valid PAAS parking card or payment of parking fees…
Slovak Ministry Approves Incinerator Days Before Petition Review, Activists Vow Appeal
- Slovakia's Environment Ministry approved a waste incinerator project two days before a petition against it was to be discussed. - Activists plan to appeal the ministry's decision, stating the proces…
Trump Shifts Hormuz Strategy: Investment Deals to Replace Fees, Full Blockade Planned for Iranian Ports
- Donald Trump is reportedly changing his strategy regarding the Strait of Hormuz. - Instead of imposing fees, the US plans to implement agreements for investment. - The US also intends to enforce a c…
WHO warns Ebola epidemic may be four times larger than reported
- The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that the Ebola epidemic could be up to four times larger than current figures suggest. - Many infected individuals are reportedly dying at home, meaning the…
Pohoda festival seen as symbol of the enemy
- The Pohoda festival is perceived by some as a symbol of the enemy, alienating segments of the audience. - The article suggests that only those who previously supported sovereignty and crude jokes re…
European prosecutors investigate Agrofert over subsidies amid conflict of interest claims
- European prosecutors have initiated criminal proceedings against the Agrofert holding company. - The investigation concerns subsidies allegedly paid to the company. - The complaint was filed by the …
Young Slovaks' sports budgets vary: some spend 200 euros monthly, others prefer a walk
- A survey reveals varying sports budgets among young Slovaks, with some spending up to 200 euros monthly. - Others prioritize less expensive activities like walking. - The findings highlight differen…
European Commission approves 63 billion euro French support for offshore wind farms
- The European Commission has approved a 63 billion euro subsidy for France to support offshore wind farms. - This financial aid is intended to accelerate the development of renewable energy sources. …
Extreme Heat Threatens Italy's Parmesan Cheese Production
- Extreme heat is threatening the quality and quantity of milk in Italy's Parmesan cheese production regions. - High temperatures are impacting dairy cows, leading to reduced milk yield. - The dairy i…
U.S. Military Announces End to Latest Attacks on Iran
- The U.S. military announced the cessation of its latest attacks targeting Iran. - Iran responded by launching attacks aimed at Bahrain. - The description notes the U.S. military's announcement regar…
Iranian minister mocks Trump over Hormuz fees as ports blockade looms
- Iran's ports blockade is set to be reinstated on Tuesday. - An Iranian minister mocked Donald Trump's statements regarding fees for passage through the Strait of Hormuz. - The article implies a pote…
Known on Wall Street, Unknown at Home: Slovak Company Finviz Generates Millions with High Margins
- Finviz, a Slovak company, has gained international recognition for its stock market heatmap. - Despite its global success, the company remains relatively unknown in its home country. - Finviz is rep…
Slovak Defense Minister eyes Prague visit for military trade deals
- Slovak Defense Minister Robert Kaliňák is reportedly planning a trip to Prague. - The visit is expected to focus on mutually beneficial trade deals, particularly concerning military equipment. - The…
F-35 fighter jet could change Middle East; Israel will do everything to prevent Turkey from acquiring it
- Turkey's pursuit of the F-35 fighter jet is causing concern for Israel, which aims to prevent Turkey from acquiring the aircraft. - Former U.S. President Donald Trump had previously promised the F-3…
Wizz Air Cancels Two Routes from Bratislava, Scales Back on Another Amid Schedule Changes
- Wizz Air is canceling two routes from Bratislava and reducing capacity on another route, signaling a shift in its competitive strategy. - The airline is adjusting its flight schedule, impacting pass…
How to Handle Workplace Bullying: Collect Evidence and Communicate in Writing
- The article offers advice on how to handle workplace bullying. - It suggests collecting evidence and maintaining written communication with the alleged bully. - The advice is framed within the conte…
Iran threatens to break deal with US if commitments not met
- Iran is threatening to abandon its agreement with the United States if Washington fails to meet its commitments. - The country is continuing negotiations with mediators from Qatar, Pakistan, and Oma…
Stellantis car sales rose about a tenth in Q2, helped by North America
- Stellantis' car sales increased by approximately 10% in the second quarter, largely driven by strong performance in North America. - Sales in the Middle East and Africa regions declined during the s…
Russia Rejects US Diplomat Crishock as Interim OHR Head in Bosnia
- Russia rejects the appointment of Christian Schmidt as the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina. - Moscow claims Schmidt lacks the necessary authority under the Dayton Agreement. - The dis…
Heatwave forces shutdown of three French nuclear reactors
- France has shut down three nuclear reactors due to high temperatures, with seven others operating at reduced capacity. - The country has set limits on the temperature of water discharged from nuclea…
Oil prices jump over 4 percent amid Middle East conflict escalation
- Oil prices surged by over 4 percent due to escalating conflict in the Middle East. - The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps reportedly attacked U.S. bases in Kuwait and Bahrain. - This development ha…
Morning Briefing: Coalition aligns with far-right; phantom candidate at MIRSI
- Slovakia's ruling coalition is reportedly aligning with the far-right, according to a morning briefing. - Allegations suggest that a "phantom" candidate received support at the Ministry of Investmen…
Daimler Truck Worries About European Truck Production Amid Emissions Standards Fears
- Daimler Truck fears European truck production may suffer due to new emissions standards. - The company warns that stricter regulations could negatively impact the freight transport sector. - These c…
Iraqi PM Al-Sudani to visit Trump in Washington
- Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani is scheduled to visit Washington D.C. to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump. - The visit comes amid the presence of multiple Iran-backed militias oper…
Slovakia Proposes Law to Limit Children's Social Media Algorithm Exposure
- Slovakia's Minister of Education, Ján Horecký, proposed a law to restrict children's access to social media. - The proposed legislation aims to limit the reach of algorithms that can negatively impa…
Michalovce is more expensive than Paris, writes Miroslav Beblavý
- The article discusses the rising cost of living in Michalovce, Slovakia, comparing it unfavorably to Paris. - It suggests that the high prices in Michalovce reflect broader issues with regional deve…
Steller's Sea Cow Reveals How Human Decisions Turn the World into a Skeleton of Memory
- The Steller's sea cow, extinct since 1768, serves as a historical example of human-driven extinction. - The article draws parallels between the sea cow's demise and ongoing environmental crises, hig…
German experts propose extending climate neutrality deadline
- German chemists and energy experts propose extending the deadline for achieving climate neutrality. - Aligning with the EU's plan could ease pressure on industry. - The proposal aims to balance clim…
Indian National Missing After Ship Attack Off Oman; Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz
- An Indian national is missing following an attack on a ship off the coast of Oman. - Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz in response to new US attacks. - The incident raises concerns …
Central and Eastern European Economies to Maintain Growth Despite Challenges, UniCredit Forecasts
- Economies in Central and Eastern Europe are projected to maintain growth despite facing various challenges. - This outlook is based on the quarterly forecast by the UniCredit banking group. - The re…
Fico to Exclude Economy Ministry from Nuclear Company Acquisition Talks
- Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico intends to exclude the Ministry of Economy from negotiations regarding the potential acquisition of the Slovak nuclear company. - Minister Denisa Saková has reporte…
How Women Shaped Politics They Couldn't Enter: Behind the Scenes of the Congress of Vienna | SME (SK)
- Aristocratic women influenced politics from behind the scenes during the Congress of Vienna. - These women operated within the salons, shaping political discourse despite being excluded from formal …
Vášáryová announces her doctorate; Slovaks honored for their fighting spirit at Karlovy Vary
- Magda Vášáryová announced her doctorate, celebrating the recognition of Slovaks' fighting spirit. - The award was presented at the Karlovy Vary festival. - Actress Juliette Binoche encouraged living…
Spiš: A Slovak Town with a UNESCO Geopark, Castle, and Synagogue Amidst Panelák Buildings, Often Missed by Tourists
- The Slovak town of Spiš has unique attractions including a UNESCO geopark, a castle, and a synagogue situated among modern panelák buildings. - Despite its historical and natural significance, touri…
Tusk announces memorial for Volhynia massacre victims
- Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced plans to build a memorial for victims of the Volhynia massacre. - The announcement came ahead of the anniversary of "Bloody Sunday" in 1943, a key date in…
Public Administration Lags in Cybersecurity Preparedness, Says National Security Council
- Slovakia's public administration lags behind in preparing for cyber threats, according to the National Security Council. - The financial sector is noted as being the best secured against such risks.…
Malian army and Russian allies capture Anéfis base in northern Mali
- Malian army forces, alongside Russian allies, have reportedly taken control of the Anéfis base in northern Mali. - The base is situated between the separatist-controlled city of Kidal and Gao. - Thi…
Amazon rainforest deforestation in Brazil hits multi-year low
- Deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon reached its lowest level in recent years. - President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva pledged to end illegal deforestation by 2030. - This reduction in forest clearin…
Tesco leaving because people aren't spending? Others are likely struggling more (interview)
- Households are increasingly postponing major purchases, impacting consumer spending. - This trend suggests that consumers are hesitant due to economic uncertainty. - The article explores how busines…
Putin's 'challenger' Nadezhdin labeled a foreign agent in Russia
- Russian authorities have designated politician Boris Nadezhdin as a "foreign agent." - Nadezhdin attempted to run against President Vladimir Putin in the 2024 Russian presidential election. - This d…
Germany moves to speed up gas power plant construction
- Germany's Bundesrat has approved measures to accelerate the construction of gas power plants. - The move aims to bolster the country's energy security amid ongoing geopolitical challenges. - This de…
Slovak Justice Ministry Fears Biological Weapons in Pandemic Treaty Amendment
- Slovakia's Ministry of Justice expresses concern over biological weapons in a proposed amendment to a pandemic treaty. - The ministry argues that the amendment could be interpreted as a basis for de…
Aviation Pioneer Wally Funk Dies at 87
- Wally Funk, a pioneering aviator and one of the first women to undergo astronaut training, has died at age 87. - She flew on a recent mission aboard Blue Origin's New Shepard rocket. - Funk was amon…
Gorillaz's Albarn Thanks Festival for Return, Pohoda Celebrations Continue in Style
- Gorillaz frontman Damon Albarn expressed gratitude for returning to the Pohoda festival, marking a significant moment for the band. - British punk band IDLES also performed, with members feeling at …
Ode to the World Championships Outsiders
- The article is a commentary on the unexpected performances of outsiders in the World Championships. - It suggests that a bit of uncertainty can be like a bit of perfume, adding an intriguing element…
Psychologist: Poor Lifestyle Makes Brain Supplements Useless
- A psychologist and coach states that poor lifestyle habits make expensive brain-boosting supplements ineffective. - He emphasizes that physical activity is one of the most scientifically supported n…
Slovaks Find 30 Euros Daily Insufficient for Food at Pohoda Festival
- Attendees at the Pohoda festival in Slovakia are spending an average of 30 euros per day on food. - This daily food budget is proving insufficient for many festival-goers. - The article provides an …
Three charged in anti-drug operation 'Valec'
- Slovak police have charged three individuals as part of an anti-drug operation named 'Valec' (Roller). - The operation involved four house searches and seven searches of other premises. - Further de…
Developer Plans to Turn Historic Luna Bar into Underground Garage, Operators Surprised
- A developer plans to convert the historic Luna Bar in Bratislava into an underground parking garage, a proposal that has surprised the venue's operators. - The developer claims the project aims to i…
Land Ownership Proof Required for Legalizing Illegal Buildings in Slovakia
- A new regulation in Slovakia requires proof of land ownership for the legalization of illegal constructions. - Building safety is also a crucial factor in the legalization process. - The regulation …
Slovak PM Fico expects independent candidates to succeed in municipal elections
- Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico anticipates success for independent candidates in upcoming municipal elections. - Fico believes these local elections will not impact the results of the parliamenta…
Australia and India Sign Uranium Supply Deal
- Australia and India have signed a uranium supply agreement. - The deal comes as India's energy consumption rapidly increases and Prime Minister Modi plans to significantly boost energy production. -…
The Black Keys Release 'Ohio Players,' a Life-Affirming Album Born from Grief
- The Black Keys have released a new collection of songs titled "Ohio Players." - The album is described as a "wild celebration of life." - However, the creation of the album was deeply influenced by …
Court Rejects Bid to Restore Trump's Name to Kennedy Center Facade
- A court has rejected a request to restore Donald Trump's name to the exterior of the Kennedy Center. - The ruling stated that Trump and the center's board failed to demonstrate irreparable harm. - T…
Slovak Interior Ministry Announces 4 Million Euros in Funding for Fire Stations
- The Slovak Ministry of Interior has announced new funding opportunities totaling four million euros. - These funds are designated to support fire stations across the country. - Applications for the …
Remišová: Minister Kažimír Hides Documents on Suspicious 105 Million Euro IT Deal
- Minister Veronika Remišová alleges that Minister Peter Kažimír is concealing documents related to a suspicious IT project. - The project in question is reportedly valued at 105 million euros. - The …
European Parliament Resolution Highlights Serbia's Lack of Progress, Calls for Respect of Values
- The European Parliament adopted a resolution criticizing Serbia's lack of progress on key EU membership reforms. - The resolution highlights Serbia's failure to fully respect EU values, democracy, a…
Biohacker aiming for immortality diagnosed with incurable disease
- A biohacker aiming to program immortality discovered he has an incurable disease. - The individual, known for closely monitoring his body, had a pathological process hidden for years. - Experts note…
Slovak Train Drivers Protest Mandatory Cab Cameras, Cite Privacy Concerns
- Train drivers in Slovakia are protesting the mandatory installation of cameras in train driver's cabs. - They argue the cameras infringe on their privacy and are unnecessary. - The Ministry of Trans…
AI-generated actress to take lead role in Hollywood film
- An AI-generated actress is set to star in her first major film role, signaling a new frontier for artificial intelligence in Hollywood. - The development highlights the increasing integration of AI …
Landslide in northwestern China kills at least 21
- A landslide in northwestern China has resulted in at least 21 fatalities. - Natural disasters are common in the region, especially during the summer months. - Further details on the specific locatio…
Cultivating the Exotic in Stupava: An Aristocratic Garden's Story
- The article discusses the historical development of the park in Stupava, Slovakia. - It highlights the influence of aristocratic owners and their gardeners on shaping the park's landscape. - The tex…
Electric guitar crafted from Notre Dame Cathedral's salvaged floor
- A unique electric guitar has been crafted from salvaged materials from the Notre Dame Cathedral's destroyed floor. - The cathedral, a symbol of Paris, was severely damaged by a fire in April 2019. -…
European Commission assesses Slovak legislative changes related to agricultural subsidies
- The European Commission is evaluating legislative changes in Slovakia related to agricultural subsidies. - Agriculture in Slovakia is considered an area with a high risk of corruption. - The descrip…
Referendum reveals opposition's strategic misstep with Hungarian voters
- A referendum revealed a strategic miscalculation by the Slovak opposition regarding Hungarian voters. - The opposition may be targeting the wrong demographic in its efforts to gain support. - The re…
Exoplanet found on 'cosmic coast' with ideal conditions for an atmosphere
- Astronomers have identified an exoplanet, designated TOI-715 b, located on the cosmic shore where life could potentially exist. - The planet orbits a red dwarf star and is situated within its habita…
TotalEnergies CEO Views Syria as Potential Energy Gateway from Iraq to Mediterranean
- The CEO of TotalEnergies sees Syria as a potential new energy gateway from Iraq to the Mediterranean. - This route could offer an alternative to the Strait of Hormuz. - The statement was made in the…
Minister Appoints Communications Chief with Questionable Expertise to Arts Foundation Board
- The Slovak Minister of Culture, Martina Šimkovičová, has appointed her communications chief to the Foundation for Support of Arts (FPU) board. - Critics argue the appointee, Demková, lacks the neces…
Israeli opposition boycotts vote on Hamas attack inquiry committee, proposal passes first reading | SME (SK)
- Israel's opposition parties boycotted a vote on establishing a committee to investigate the Hamas attack. - The proposal to form the committee passed its first reading in parliament. - The boycott h…
Armenian PM Hopes to Resolve Issues With Russia Amid Pro-Western Accusations
- Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan expressed hope for resolving contentious issues with Russia. - Russia has accused the Armenian government of pursuing a pro-Western foreign policy direction. …
