The newly elected Speaker of the Slovenian National Assembly, Zoran Stevanović, has announced intentions to visit Moscow and hold a referendum regarding Slovenia’s NATO membership.
In a statement shared on Instagram by Radio Prvi, Stevanović expressed his desire to foster cooperation across national boundaries. “I would like to build bridges and work well with all countries, regardless of the wall that has been built between the West and the East. Therefore, I plan to visit Moscow soon,” he said.
In addition to his planned trip, Stevanović confirmed the organization of a referendum on Slovenia’s exit from NATO. “We promised the people a referendum on leaving NATO, and we will conduct this referendum,” he stated, as reported by Radio Prvi.
Stevanović also advocates for the gradual lifting of sanctions against Russia. However, he has refuted claims of having pro-Russian views. “I do not have pro-Russian views, only pro-Slovenian ones. We assert that Slovenia should conduct its own policy independently and sovereignly,” he emphasized.
The Speaker further stated that Slovenia should engage with all nations, especially major powers, but clarified that such cooperation does not equate to subservience. “We will be absolutely against interference in external military and diplomatic disputes,” he added.
In response to Stevanović’s election, members of the Russian State Duma expressed readiness for constructive dialogue with Slovenian representatives, emphasizing equality and mutual respect for national interests.
Stevanović’s election came as a surprise, as the recent parliamentary elections were won by the Freedom Movement led by Prime Minister Robert Golob. However, the Speaker role was filled by a member from a different party.
Stevanović leads the Resni.ca party, which is often described in media as Eurosceptic.
It is noteworthy that Slovenia has been a NATO member since 2004, having supported a Euro-Atlantic course. The country joined during a significant expansion round alongside six other nations, following a referendum where 66% of citizens favored accession.
Additionally, the referendum solidified Slovenia’s path toward Euro-integration.
In the parliamentary elections held in March 2026, Golob’s Freedom Movement secured 28.54% of the votes. However, forming a majority required negotiations with multiple parties.
Zoran Stevanović, the new Speaker of Slovenia's National Assembly, plans a visit to Moscow and a referendum on NATO membership, sparking discussions on Slovenia's foreign policy direction. His pro-Slovenian stance emphasizes independence in international relations.