Today's summit will focus on the situation in Ukraine and a strategic debate on the EU's position, as well as on the situation in the Middle East, also addressing migration and former Finnish President Niinistö's report on strengthening Europe's civil and military resilience and preparedness.

Before the European Council meeting, Prime Minister Golob attended a breakfast meeting of the Renew Europe political group, which was also attended by Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement. The Prime Minister expressed his satisfaction that Commissioner Kos will make her first official visit to Slovenia on Monday, 23 December 2024, which will be an opportunity to exchange views on the priorities of the new European Commission, EU enlargement and the current situation in Europe and the world.

In a press statement, Prime Minister Golob said that 2025 will be the key year for ending the conflict in Ukraine: "Weapons must be replaced by diplomacy that seeks solutions for a just and lasting peace. When and if the opportunity to stop the conflict presents itself, Europe must seize it with both hands."

EU leaders will also discuss the European Union's role in the world, particularly in the light of the changed geopolitical, security and economic situation. "I believe that the most important strategic debate today will be on how the European Union should position itself globally in these challenging times, while also anticipating the actions of the new US administration," the Prime Minister explained.

Mr Golob also commented on yesterday's discussions at the EU-Western Balkans Summit. He noted that the leaders had engaged in very frank and fruitful talks, with enlargement gaining momentum, but that the first obstacles had also been revealed: "I think it will be necessary to be pragmatic, to keep political unity on the EU side regarding the goal of achieving enlargement. Slovenia is in favour of simpler, pre-defined rules to facilitate accession negotiations."