Opposition Criticizes Culture Minister's Expensive Trip to European Capital of Culture 2026 Opening

Slovakia's opposition party Progressive Slovakia (PS) has criticized Culture Minister Martina Šimkovičová over the costs of her participation in the opening ceremony of the European Capital of Culture 2026. PS lawmaker Kleinert claims the ministry booked accommodation costing 4,000 euros for the minister's attendance at the event. The criticism comes amid ongoing political tensions between the ruling coalition, which includes Šimkovičová's Slovak National Party, and the liberal opposition Progressive Slovakia, which frequently scrutinizes government spending practices.