State Secretary Gabrič at an informal video conference of foreign affairs ministers

“Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine, and nothing about European security without Europe,” was Slovenia’s main message, presented at the meeting by State Secretary Gabrič. She also reaffirmed Slovenia's ongoing support for an immediate ceasefire and a future peace agreement that provides robust security assurances for Ukraine, in line with international law and the UN Charter. “Only then can we talk about lasting and just peace,” Gabrič added. She warned against the inadmissibility of changing internationally recognised borders, as this would set a dangerous precedent with unforeseeable consequences, including in the Western Balkans. She expressed her support for further sanctions against Russia and confirmed that Slovenia would continue to provide Ukraine with all the necessary assistance.

During the discussion on the situation in the Middle East, the State Secretary drew attention to the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, where at least 100 children have died from malnutrition and starvation. “Slovenia condemns in the strongest terms Israel’s plan to occupy Gaza City announced by Israel last week, and calls on EU Member States to send a clear message that Israel must halt its plans immediately. This is the last straw. It is a clear violation of international law and international humanitarian law, and it will only serve to further exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. After 22 months, it is high time for the war to end and for the suffering of civilians to stop," she stressed. Gabrič reaffirmed Slovenia's commitment to achieving an immediate and lasting ceasefire, releasing hostages, ensuring adequate and unimpeded humanitarian access, and making further efforts to achieve a two-state solution. In the absence of EU sanctions, she presented the measures adopted by Slovenia and called for the adoption of EU restrictive measures, including the Commission's proposal to partially suspend Israel from the Horizon Europe programme. State Secretary Gabrič condemned the murder of the five Al Jazeera journalists, emphasising Slovenia’s consistent support for media freedom and the safety of journalists, especially in war zones.