Bloomberg: Slovakia not responsible for fate of sold shells

Slovak Defence Minister Robert Kalinak has stated that the Slovak government cannot fully control the final destination of the shells it produces, as the decision on their use lies with the buyers after purchase.

"Our political declaration says that we will not provide free military aid to Ukraine, because by doing so we will support the conflict," Kalinak said, Caliber.Az reports, citing Bloomberg.

Kalinak emphasized that Slovakia will not restrict its defence production if it benefits the country's gross domestic product. "Because by doing so, I will harm Slovakia's interests," he concluded.

The minister noted that the defence industry's contribution to Slovakia's economic growth this year is expected to be around 2 per cent.

He highlighted this as an opportunity to improve Slovakia's economy and public finances, insisting on a significant increase in ammunition production to achieve these economic goals.

Kalinak's comments underscore the balance Slovakia aims to maintain between its political stance on military aid and its economic interests in boosting defence production.