The European Union doesn't want to use military force to address the conflict in southeastern Ukraine, German Chancellor Angela Merkel said during her official visit to Slovakia on Monday.
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico noted that, besides the political problems plaguing Ukraine, Kiev needs to adopt what he called "incredibly difficult" social, economic and financial reforms. "Sometimes I feel like, rather than resolving its problems, Ukraine expects everybody else to do that. We're ready to help, but only as long as Ukraine itself engages in fulfilling its tasks”, said Fico.
Earlier that day, the German Chancellor spoke with Slovak President Andrej Kiska about much needed unity within the EU. “We agreed that the EU needs to speak in one voice on key issues”, said Kiska, who gave assurances to Merkel that Slovakia stands alongside its partners. In addition, the two officials discussed economic cooperation between EU-member countries and stressed the need for adherence to agreed rules. Increasing competitiveness is an important factor for economic growth, stated both Kiska and Merkel.
