Fico Warns of 'New Iron Curtain' in EU at Budapest CPAC Conference

Robert Fico, the Prime Minister of Slovakia, delivered a speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Budapest, Hungary on May 29, 2025. His address focused on concerns about potential changes to the European Union, specifically the possible elimination of the veto power for member states. Fico warned that such a move could create a "new Iron Curtain" in Europe, dividing the continent. "The abolishment of the veto would represent a new type of 'Iron Curtain' in the EU," Fico stated. The conference, also attended by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, was broadcast live online. Both leaders expressed concerns about the increasing centralization of power within the EU. Fico's speech underscores the growing debate within the EU regarding its future direction and the balance of power between member states.