ŠKOFJA LOKA, Slovenia — The Republic of Slovenia, known as the birthplace of First Lady Melania Trump and LA Lakers star Luka Dončić, is experiencing a major political shift with the return of conservative leader Janez Janša as prime minister.

Janša recently formed a coalition government that ousted the leftist leader Robert Golob. Since taking office, Janša has reversed Golob’s anti-Israel policies by announcing plans to move Slovenia’s embassy to Jerusalem, freezing recognition of a Palestinian state, and revoking a 2025 ban on military trade with Israel.

Janša has also expressed strong support for Ukraine, having traveled to Kyiv in March 2022 alongside Polish and Czech prime ministers to show EU solidarity against the Russian invasion. He recently returned to Kyiv to mark Ukraine Statehood Day during the Ukraine–Southeast Europe Summit.

Although no reforms have yet passed the Slovenian parliament, Janša joined 18 other EU leaders in signing a letter calling for "a fundamental change in immigration policy" and practice. After two weeks of discussions, his government secured 51 votes in a secret National Assembly ballot: 48 from his coalition and partners, two from representatives of Italian and Hungarian minorities, and one from an anonymous opposition member.

Janša’s critics have drawn parallels between his approach and that of former U.S. President Donald Trump, particularly on immigration issues. Supporters envision Slovenia as "a country of opportunity, prosperity and justice, where each responsible citizen will feel safe and accepted."

Tyler Speicher, an American journalist based in Slovenia, has covered the region extensively, including Janša’s political career.

Sources