Minister Fajon in Brussels: abducted Ukrainian children must be returned without delay and Russia must be held accountable

Ahead of the formal Foreign Affairs Council, EU foreign affairs ministers held an informal breakfast with the foreign ministers of the six Western Balkan partners. Minister Fajon underlined the urgent need to bring these countries closer to the European Union: “EU enlargement strengthens our security, resilience and capacity to counter hybrid and cyber threats, while contributing to peace and stability beyond our borders.” She also called on the Western Balkan partners to remain committed to their European path: “I encourage you to stay focused on your accession paths, remain politically committed to advancing reforms and address outstanding issues.” Ministers continued these discussions during the Foreign Affairs Council, where Minister Fajon reiterated Slovenia’s support for strengthening cooperation with the region within the framework of the Common Foreign and Security Policy, including the Common Security and Defence Policy. She expressed hope that at least two or three countries from the region could join the European Union by 2030.

Ministers also discussed Russia’s continued aggression against Ukraine, now entering its fifth year. Slovenia continues to support all diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace, acceptable to Ukraine and based on the UN Charter and international law. “We hope that peace negotiations will resume as soon as possible. However, at present, there are no encouraging signs,” said Minister Fajon, who also advocated a stronger EU role in the negotiations. She welcomed the strengthened mandate of the EU Advisory Mission for Civilian Security Sector Reform in Ukraine (EUAM), which will now include efforts to counter hybrid threats and support the reintegration of veterans. She also expressed hope that the EU would maintain unity on forthcoming decisions related to Ukraine’s accession process and support under the European Peace Facility.

Slovenia supports sanctions against violent Israeli settlers

During discussions on the Middle East, Minister Fajon condemned Iran’s recent attacks on the energy infrastructure of Gulf countries and expressed grave concern over the escalating regional conflict. She called for respect for the ceasefire and for negotiations to continue with a view to reaching a comprehensive solution. “Slovenia underlines the importance of full respect for international law, including freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, particularly with regard to transit through the international strait. This principle must apply to all actors and in all circumstances,” she stated. The ministers also supported further concrete cooperation with Gulf partners, including in the field of security.

Minister Fajon stressed that the international community must not lose sight of Gaza and the West Bank. She recalled that last month Slovenia, together with Ireland and Spain, called for the temporary suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, but the proposal did not receive sufficient support among EU member states. In Brussels, ministers reached a political agreement on additional sanctions against violent settlers and Hamas. “It is crucial to implement UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and continue political efforts towards a two-state solution, which remains the only viable path to a comprehensive, just and lasting peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians,” Minister Fajon said. In this context, she reiterated support for Spain’s proposal that the EU invoke the European Blocking Statute in order to protect the work of the International Criminal Court, its judges and prosecutors from US sanctions, which also target Slovenian ICC judge Beti Hohler.

Ministers later held an informal exchange with Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Anita Anand, and participated in a high-level political dialogue between the EU and Syria.

Russia must end its shameful and unlawful practice

A high-level meeting of the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children, co-organised by the EU, Canada and Ukraine, was also held in Brussels. Slovenia condemns the unlawful deportation and forcible transfer of Ukrainian children to Russia, Belarus and the occupied territories. “These actions constitute clear violations of international humanitarian and human rights law, as well as war crimes and crimes against humanity, as confirmed by the arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court and the findings of the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Ukraine,” Minister Fajon stressed. She added that every effort must be made to return the children safely to their homes and families: “Russia must end this shameful and unlawful practice and ensure the immediate and safe return of Ukrainian children. It must be held accountable for these acts.” Minister Fajon also condemned the unlawful adoption, militarisation and indoctrination of Ukrainian children and young people, as well as attempts to alter their identities.