Interior Minister Rejects Criticism Over Storm Response in Eastern Slovakia

Bratislava, 10 July (TASR) – Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok (Voice-SD) has rejected the opposition's criticism that government officials are not responding adequately to the aftermath of the recent storms in eastern Slovakia and are failing to assist the local people. According to the minister, representatives of the Interior Ministry were dispatched to the affected areas immediately. "The Interior Ministry's crisis management promptly declared states of emergency in more than 25 villages and activated all rescue units. Firefighters are conducting hundreds of operations, police are ensuring order and safety in high-risk areas. Both professionals and volunteers are helping, and their work is ongoing," he stated on social media. Sutaj Estok added that the Labour Ministry has launched humanitarian aid through local labour offices, with assistance already en route to the worst-affected communities. The state, he said, is also working closely with Presov region. Eastern Slovakia was hit earlier this week by strong winds and heavy rainfall, causing widespread material damage to private property, infrastructure and transportation networks. Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) announced that the government will provide assistance wherever possible to help cover the damages. The Labour, Ministry also confirmed the provision of humanitarian support. However, the opposition has argued that the government has not made a clear commitment to help. Opposition parties Progressive Slovakia (PS) and Freedom and Solidarity (SaS) have called on cabinet members to take urgent action and allocate financial resources immediately. mf/df