Summary:
Prime Minister Luís Montenegro attended a golf tournament instead of the Kiev summit.
Criticism arose from the Socialist Party, Left Bloc, and Livre regarding his absence.
Official explanation for absence was "agenda issues," which contradicts the public schedule.
Key European leaders attended the summit, while Montenegro was criticized for prioritizing leisure.
Montenegro reaffirmed Portugal's support for Ukraine in a call with President Zelensky.
Prime Minister's Controversial Golf Tournament Attendance
The presence of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro at a golf tournament alongside the owner of the Solverde group has drawn criticism from the Socialist Party (PS), Left Bloc (BE), and Livre. This event occurred just two days after the government faced its first censure and coincided with Montenegro's absence from key ceremonies in Kiev marking three years of war. The Prime Minister justified his absence as due to "agenda issues," claiming he faced technical problems during a video call that day. However, sources indicate that Portugal's participation in Kiev was never planned to be in person.
Questionable Agenda Management
Montenegro's golf tournament on February 23 was not listed in his public agenda, raising questions about his priorities. The following day, key European leaders traveled to Kiev, including seven out of 27 member states, while Montenegro remained in Espinho. His office later stated he was connected remotely, but this was not reflected in the video wall during the meeting. The official explanation for his absence was "agenda issues," which do not align with the available public schedule.
Political Backlash
The timing of the golf tournament has sparked outrage among leftist parties. Ana Gomes from the PS emphasized the date coincidence, suggesting Montenegro should have been in Kiev instead. Pedro Nuno Santos criticized the absence, stating it was crucial for Portugal to participate in discussions regarding Ukraine.
Fabian Figueiredo, the BE parliamentary leader, called for clarification on whether leisure activities are prioritized over state representation. Meanwhile, Rui Tavares from Livre deemed the situation serious and promised to seek answers from the Prime Minister.
Aftermath and Statements
Two days post-summit, Montenegro reiterated Portugal's support for Ukraine in a call with President Volodymyr Zelensky, highlighting a commitment to a just and lasting peace. Zelensky acknowledged and appreciated Portugal's military assistance and ongoing support for Ukraine this year.
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