Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Monday condemned the defacement of its Embassy premises in Slovenia by anti-India elements. The MEA has said that it has taken up the matter "strongly" with Slovenian authorities both in New Delhi and in Ljubljana, so that perpetrators behind such acts are held accountable.&nbsp;"Under the Vienna Convention, diplomatic premises are inviolable and must be protected. We have taken up the matter strongly with Slovenian authorities, both in New Delhi and in Ljubljana, so that the perpetrators behind such reprehensible acts are held accountable," said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.&nbsp;The Foreign Ministry further urged law enforcement agencies in Slovenia and in any other countries to take firm actions against hateful propaganda being spread by the anti- India elements. “We also call upon law enforcement authorities elsewhere to take note of the hateful propaganda and disinformation being spread by such groups.”Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rural-jobs-fall-vb-g-ram-g-scheme-mgnregs-july-2026-1786360960267">Rural jobs fall nearly 50% in first month of VB-G RAM G scheme, official data shows</a>“We also call upon law enforcement authorities elsewhere to take note of the hateful propaganda and disinformation being spread by such groups,” read the statement.&nbsp;Miscreants defiled the Indian flag, including phrases like "Khalistan Zindabad" and “Modi terrorist” directly onto the walls and premises of the embassy building itself. There has been no official response from Slovenia; it is widely believed that Pro-Khalistani groups, which have been previously involved in the defacement and vandalisation of India's diplomatic missions in the UK, US and Canada, are responsible for this attack.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Europe’s softness on Khalistani extremists is letting anti-India elements walk free Khalistani extremists vandalised the Indian Embassy in Slovenia. India’s MEA has condemned the attack and demanded action from local authorities. Yet Europe keeps looking the other way — all… <a href="https://t.co/ELKtNaNbeP">pic.twitter.com/ELKtNaNbeP</a>&mdash; Sputnik India (@Sputnik_India) <a href="https://x.com/Sputnik_India/status/2086773825346105474?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

India has strongly condemned the defacement of its embassy premises in Slovenia and urged authorities to hold those responsible accountable.

Indian Ministry of External Affairs on Monday condemned the defacement of its Embassy premises in Slovenia by anti-India elements. The MEA has said that it has taken up the matter "strongly" with Slovenian authorities both in New Delhi and in Ljubljana, so that perpetrators behind such acts are held accountable. "Under the Vienna Convention, diplomatic premises are inviolable and must be protected. We have taken up the matter strongly with Slovenian authorities, both in New Delhi and in Ljubljana, so that the perpetrators behind such reprehensible acts are held accountable," said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal. The Foreign Ministry further urged law enforcement agencies in Slovenia and in any other countries to take firm actions against hateful propaganda being spread by the anti- India elements. “We also call upon law enforcement authorities elsewhere to take note of the hateful propaganda and disinformation being spread by such groups.” Also Read: Rural jobs fall nearly 50% in first month of VB-G RAM G scheme, official data shows “We also call upon law enforcement authorities elsewhere to take note of the hateful propaganda and disinformation being spread by such groups,” read the statement. Miscreants defiled the Indian flag, including phrases like "Khalistan Zindabad" and “Modi terrorist” directly onto the walls and premises of the embassy building itself. There has been no official response from Slovenia; it is widely believed that Pro-Khalistani groups, which have been previously involved in the defacement and vandalisation of India's diplomatic missions in the UK, US and Canada, are responsible for this attack.

India has strongly condemned the defacement of its embassy premises in Slovenia and urged authorities to hold those responsible accountable.

Embassy defaced in Slovenia: India demands perpetrators be held accountable

Parliament has officially approved a mandatory Christmas (winter) bonus for employees and pensioners—one of the most talked-about measures of the year. Workers will receive €639 tax-free, while pensioners will get €150, with payouts required before 18–19 December.

The bill passed 48:1, but the debate is far from over. Employers warn of financial strain, liquidity issues, and a breakdown in social dialogue, while the government says the bonus is necessary relief in a tough winter. Sole traders also see major changes, with their flat-rate taxation ceiling doubled.


Parliament Passes Mandatory Christmas Bonus: Who Gets Paid and What Changes Now?

In Slovenia, the traditional Alpine folklore figure Krampus, a horned demon who punishes naughty children during the Christmas season, draws huge crowds during festive celebrations. Krampusnacht, or Krampus Night, features elaborate parades with performers donning hand-carved wooden masks and shaggy costumes, creating an immersive and thrilling experience.

Slovenia Celebrates Europe’s Scariest Christmas with Krampus Parade

Slovenia’s caves are bringing the Christmas spirit to life with a breathtaking living nativity scene. The unique display combines the beauty of natural caves with traditional holiday traditions, offering visitors an immersive and magical experience as they celebrate the season in this extraordinary setting.

Slovenia Caves Bring Christmas To Life With A Living Nativity

Slovenia’s caves are bringing the Christmas spirit to life with a breathtaking living nativity scene. The unique display combines the beauty of natural caves with traditional holiday traditions, offering visitors an immersive and magical experience as they celebrate the season in this extraordinary setting.



Volleyball players from different countries took part in a sporty and unusual surrounding, take a look at Slovenia's floating Volleyball Court. Watch in for more details!

Slovenia: Teams compete with a splash in spectacular 'Volleyball on Water' event

Acrobats attempted to break a world record trampoline jump over Ljubljanica River in Slovenia's capital. Watch in for more details!

Slovenia: Acrobatic stunts on the world's largest trampoline over Ljubljanica River

Romania and Slovakia both qualified for the last 16 at Euro 2024 after a tense 1-1 draw in their last Group E game on Wednesday.

Ondrej Duda put Slovakia ahead in the first half but Romania's Razvan Marin equalised with a penalty before the interval.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-phil-foden-leaves-england-camp-day-after-match-vs-slovenia-735412">Phil Foden leaves England camp day after match vs Slovenia</a>

With all four teams in the group earning four points from their three games, Romania finished top having scored more goals than second-placed Belgium.&nbsp;

Slovakia went through in third place thanks to a superior goal difference to fourth-placed Ukraine.

It was a memorable moment for Romania, who are into the knockout stages of the Euros for the first time in 24 years.

Romania had only qualified once for the last 16 in their five Euro appearances, but Edward Iordanescu's tenacious side have ended that long drought

They responded to Iordanescu's pre-match challenge to make "history" with a combative display fuelled by their army of vociferous fans, who turned the stadium into a sea of yellow.

Slovakia are into the knockout stages of a major tournament for the third time.

They reached the last 16 in the 2010 World Cup and made it to the same stage at Euro 2016.

Knowing a draw would send both teams through, cynics had suggested they would play out a mutually beneficial stalemate.

But there was no sign of Romania settling for a point as they made a fast start.

They threatened an early goal when Andrei Ratiu's stinging strike was pushed away by Martin Dubravka, with the rebound lashed wildly over by Ianis Hagi.

<h2>- Romania mosh-pit -</h2>

Marin smashed a free-kick narrowly wide from long range moments late as Romania looked to capitalise on their early dominance.

Slovakia were inches away from snatching the lead as Lukas Haraslin's free-kick went through a crowd of players and almost crept in at the far post.

It was a warning Romania failed to heed and Slovakia went in front in the 24th minute.

Juraj Kucka whipped in a deep cross that caught the Romania defence standing statuesque, leaving the unmarked Duda free to power his header past Florin Nita from eight yards.

Romania's response was emphatic as they drew level in the 37th minute thanks to an incisive raid from the son of former Barcelona and Real Madrid star Gheorghe Hagi.

David Hancko's foul on Hagi was adjudged a penalty by VAR after referee Daniel Siebert initially ruled the offence had taken place just outside the area.

Marin stepped up to drill the spot-kick high into the roof of the net to the deafening delight of the hordes of Romania fans who turned the arena into a frenzied mosh-pit.

The searing Frankfurt heat gave way to a heavy storm in the second half as thunder, lightning and rain swirled around the stadium.

It was a suitably dramatic backdrop to a tense clash that was close to swinging Romania's way when Marin forced a good save from Dubravka before Denis Dragus skimmed the roof of the net.

Haraslin's curler flashed past the far post as the storm abated, but, while there was no winner, both sides ended up celebrating their progress to the knockout stage.

Romania and Slovakia both qualified for the last 16 at Euro 2024 after a tense 1-1 draw in their last Group E game on Wednesday. Ondrej Duda put Slovakia ahead in the first half but Romania's Razvan Marin equalised with a penalty before the interval.

Romania and Slovakia both qualified for the last 16 at Euro 2024 after a tense 1-1 draw in their last Group E game on Wednesday. Ondrej Duda put Slovakia ahead in the first half but Romania's Razvan Marin equalised with a penalty before the interval. Also Read: Phil Foden leaves England camp day after match vs Slovenia With all four teams in the group earning four points from their three games, Romania finished top having scored more goals than second-placed Belgium. Slovakia went through in third place thanks to a superior goal difference to fourth-placed Ukraine. It was a memorable moment for Romania, who are into the knockout stages of the Euros for the first time in 24 years. Romania had only qualified once for the last 16 in their five Euro appearances, but Edward Iordanescu's tenacious side have ended that long drought They responded to Iordanescu's pre-match challenge to make "history" with a combative display fuelled by their army of vociferous fans, who turned the stadium into a sea of yellow. Slovakia are into the knockout stages of a major tournament for the third time. They reached the last 16 in the 2010 World Cup and made it to the same stage at Euro 2016. Knowing a draw would send both teams through, cynics had suggested they would play out a mutually beneficial stalemate. But there was no sign of Romania settling for a point as they made a fast start. They threatened an early goal when Andrei Ratiu's stinging strike was pushed away by Martin Dubravka, with the rebound lashed wildly over by Ianis Hagi. - Romania mosh-pit - Marin smashed a free-kick narrowly wide from long range moments late as Romania looked to capitalise on their early dominance. Slovakia were inches away from snatching the lead as Lukas Haraslin's free-kick went through a crowd of players and almost crept in at the far post. It was a warning Romania failed to heed and Slovakia went in front in the 24th minute. Juraj Kucka whipped in a deep cross that caught the Romania defence standing statuesque, leaving the unmarked Duda free to power his header past Florin Nita from eight yards. Romania's response was emphatic as they drew level in the 37th minute thanks to an incisive raid from the son of former Barcelona and Real Madrid star Gheorghe Hagi. David Hancko's foul on Hagi was adjudged a penalty by VAR after referee Daniel Siebert initially ruled the offence had taken place just outside the area. Marin stepped up to drill the spot-kick high into the roof of the net to the deafening delight of the hordes of Romania fans who turned the arena into a frenzied mosh-pit. The searing Frankfurt heat gave way to a heavy storm in the second half as thunder, lightning and rain swirled around the stadium. It was a suitably dramatic backdrop to a tense clash that was close to swinging Romania's way when Marin forced a good save from Dubravka before Denis Dragus skimmed the roof of the net. Haraslin's curler flashed past the far post as the storm abated, but, while there was no winner, both sides ended up celebrating their progress to the knockout stage.

Euro 2024: Romania, Slovakia enter Round of 16 after drawing last group stage match

Christian Eriksen scored for Denmark in a 1-1 draw with Slovenia at Euro 2024 on Sunday (Jun 16), almost three years to the day since he nearly died in his team's opening game at the last tournament.

The Manchester United midfielder fired his team ahead on 17 minutes in front of a Stuttgart stadium filled overwhelmingly by Denmark supporters&nbsp;but Erik Janza's late deflected effort earned Slovenia a point in their first match at the Euros since 2000.

Denmark will now England in their second Group C game in Frankfurt on Thursday, while Slovenia continue their campaign against Serbia in Munich.&nbsp;

Denmark reached the semi-finals of the pandemic-delayed Euro 2020 tournament before losing to England, riding a wave of emotion triggered by Eriksen's collapse in Copenhagen, which left him needing to be resuscitated on the pitch after he suffered a cardiac arrest.

He eventually resumed his career after being fitted with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator, making his return to international duty nine months later and appearing at the 2022 World Cup.

On the eve of Denmark's Euro 2024 opener, Eriksen said the harrowing incident is no longer something he routinely thinks about, intent instead on focusing on helping his country make another deep run in Germany.

Slovenia midfielder Timi Max Elsnik admitted there would be few surprises for either side after they finished just behind Denmark on a head-to-head record in their qualifying group.

Highly-rated Slovenia striker Benjamin Sesko nearly caught Kasper Schmeichel out with a powerful long-range drive, but moments later it was Denmark who struck.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-denmarks-eriksen-who-suffered-cardiac-arrest-in-2021-scores-goal-after-1100-days-in-tournament-732325">Also read |&nbsp;Euro 2024: Denmark's Eriksen who suffered cardiac arrest in 2021, scores goal after 1,100 days in tournament</a>

<h2>Wind supplies Eriksen</h2>

A quick throw-in was flicked on by Jonas Wind into the stride of Eriksen, who crashed a low shot into the far corner to give the Danes the lead.

With Sesko being closely monitored by the Danish defence, Andraz Sporar failed to take advantage of a hole in the backline as he miscontrolled a bouncing ball forward when he looked through on goal. &nbsp;

Sesko almost handed Denmark a second as he hacked a clearance in his own area against his team-mate, Jan Oblak watching on in hope as the ball skipped just wide of his goal.&nbsp;

Eriksen blazed over just before half-time after more excellent work from the lively Wind, with Slovenia defender Jaka Bijol close to heading into his own net after a Denmark set-piece early in the second half.

Oblak produced a brave stop to prevent Rasmus Hojlund doubling the advantage, blocking the United forward's effort from point-blank range to keep his team in it.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-axe-wielding-man-shot-by-german-police-ahead-of-poland-vs-netherlands-match-732261">Also read |&nbsp;Euro 2024: Axe-wielding man shot by German police ahead of Poland vs Netherlands match</a>

Adam Gnezda Cerin glanced a cross wide as Slovenia pressed for an equaliser and Sporar stabbed wide as he lunged to meet a free-kick.

Sesko was desperately unlucky to see his rasping drive cannon back off the post, but Slovenia were soon level.

Denmark could not properly clear a corner and Janza's thumping half-volley from just outside the penalty box brushed off Morten Hjulmand to leave Schmeichel stranded.

Sporar had the chance to snatch victory for Slovenia after bursting past Jannik Vestergaard, but he powered into the side-netting as Schmeichel appeared to get the faintest of touches.&nbsp;

Christian Eriksen scored for Denmark in a 1-1 draw with Slovenia at Euro 2024 on Sunday (Jun 16), almost three years to the day since he nearly died in his team's opening game at the last tournament.

Christian Eriksen scored for Denmark in a 1-1 draw with Slovenia at Euro 2024 on Sunday (Jun 16), almost three years to the day since he nearly died in his team's opening game at the last tournament. The Manchester United midfielder fired his team ahead on 17 minutes in front of a Stuttgart stadium filled overwhelmingly by Denmark supporters but Erik Janza's late deflected effort earned Slovenia a point in their first match at the Euros since 2000. Denmark will now England in their second Group C game in Frankfurt on Thursday, while Slovenia continue their campaign against Serbia in Munich. Denmark reached the semi-finals of the pandemic-delayed Euro 2020 tournament before losing to England, riding a wave of emotion triggered by Eriksen's collapse in Copenhagen, which left him needing to be resuscitated on the pitch after he suffered a cardiac arrest. He eventually resumed his career after being fitted with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator, making his return to international duty nine months later and appearing at the 2022 World Cup. On the eve of Denmark's Euro 2024 opener, Eriksen said the harrowing incident is no longer something he routinely thinks about, intent instead on focusing on helping his country make another deep run in Germany. Slovenia midfielder Timi Max Elsnik admitted there would be few surprises for either side after they finished just behind Denmark on a head-to-head record in their qualifying group. Highly-rated Slovenia striker Benjamin Sesko nearly caught Kasper Schmeichel out with a powerful long-range drive, but moments later it was Denmark who struck. Also read | Euro 2024: Denmark's Eriksen who suffered cardiac arrest in 2021, scores goal after 1,100 days in tournament Wind supplies Eriksen A quick throw-in was flicked on by Jonas Wind into the stride of Eriksen, who crashed a low shot into the far corner to give the Danes the lead. With Sesko being closely monitored by the Danish defence, Andraz Sporar failed to take advantage of a hole in the backline as he miscontrolled a bouncing ball forward when he looked through on goal. Sesko almost handed Denmark a second as he hacked a clearance in his own area against his team-mate, Jan Oblak watching on in hope as the ball skipped just wide of his goal. Eriksen blazed over just before half-time after more excellent work from the lively Wind, with Slovenia defender Jaka Bijol close to heading into his own net after a Denmark set-piece early in the second half. Oblak produced a brave stop to prevent Rasmus Hojlund doubling the advantage, blocking the United forward's effort from point-blank range to keep his team in it. Also read | Euro 2024: Axe-wielding man shot by German police ahead of Poland vs Netherlands match Adam Gnezda Cerin glanced a cross wide as Slovenia pressed for an equaliser and Sporar stabbed wide as he lunged to meet a free-kick. Sesko was desperately unlucky to see his rasping drive cannon back off the post, but Slovenia were soon level. Denmark could not properly clear a corner and Janza's thumping half-volley from just outside the penalty box brushed off Morten Hjulmand to leave Schmeichel stranded. Sporar had the chance to snatch victory for Slovenia after bursting past Jannik Vestergaard, but he powered into the side-netting as Schmeichel appeared to get the faintest of touches.

Euro 2024: Slovenia strike late to secure draw against Danes after Eriksen's fairytale goal

In southwestern Slovenia, five people, including three adults and two guides from a Slovenian family, have been trapped in the Krizna Jama cave due to escalating water levels caused by heavy rainfall. The group has been stuck since Saturday (Jan 6), prompting a critical rescue operation.

Slovenian rescue teams, including 35 cave rescuers and eight divers from across the country, swiftly responded to the emergency. Divers reached the stranded group, relocated them to a secure spot designed for such situations, and established a heated shelter. All five individuals are reported to be stable.

The trapped group had embarked on an eight-kilometre&nbsp;guided tour through the cave system, renowned for its underground lakes. Accessible solely by boat along the Bloscica River, the cave attracts visitors as part of organised tours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-find-microplastics-in-cave-closed-to-humans-for-30-years-study-641823">Also read |&nbsp;Scientists find microplastics in cave closed to humans for 30 years: Study</a>

<h2>Awaiting water recession</h2>

Igor Benko, head of Slovenia's Speleological Association, expressed optimism about decreasing subterranean water levels. However, caution prevails as it may take days before the passage becomes safe for evacuation, reported Associated Press.

The ongoing rescue operation involves not only cave rescuers and divers but also support from 11 firefighters and civil protection force members.

Also watch |&nbsp;Rat hole miners: Unexpected heroes of India tunnel rescue

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rat-hole-miners-unexpected-heroes-of-india-tunnel-rescue-665296/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Krizna Jama holds the distinction of being the world's fourth-largest known underground ecosystem in terms of biodiversity. The rescue mission aims not only to safeguard lives but also to preserve the delicate ecosystem within the cave.

(With inputs from agencies)

In southwestern Slovenia, five people, including three adults and two guides from a Slovenian family, have been trapped in the Krizna Jama cave due to escalating water levels caused by heavy rainfall.

In southwestern Slovenia, five people, including three adults and two guides from a Slovenian family, have been trapped in the Krizna Jama cave due to escalating water levels caused by heavy rainfall. The group has been stuck since Saturday (Jan 6), prompting a critical rescue operation. Slovenian rescue teams, including 35 cave rescuers and eight divers from across the country, swiftly responded to the emergency. Divers reached the stranded group, relocated them to a secure spot designed for such situations, and established a heated shelter. All five individuals are reported to be stable. The trapped group had embarked on an eight-kilometre guided tour through the cave system, renowned for its underground lakes. Accessible solely by boat along the Bloscica River, the cave attracts visitors as part of organised tours. Also read | Scientists find microplastics in cave closed to humans for 30 years: Study Awaiting water recession Igor Benko, head of Slovenia's Speleological Association, expressed optimism about decreasing subterranean water levels. However, caution prevails as it may take days before the passage becomes safe for evacuation, reported Associated Press. The ongoing rescue operation involves not only cave rescuers and divers but also support from 11 firefighters and civil protection force members. Also watch | Rat hole miners: Unexpected heroes of India tunnel rescue Krizna Jama holds the distinction of being the world's fourth-largest known underground ecosystem in terms of biodiversity. The rescue mission aims not only to safeguard lives but also to preserve the delicate ecosystem within the cave. (With inputs from agencies)

Slovenia: Five people trapped in Krizna Jama cave after heavy rainfall causes water levels to rise

Slovenia on Saturday (Oct 21) deployed police on border crossings with Croatia and Hungary to prevent potential security threats. The deployment comes a day after the government decided to introduce temporary border controls until October 30. According to a report by the news agency STA, police were deployed on 14 border crossings with Croatia and Hungary.

Long queues were seen at border crossings as travellers waited to have their documents checked. Katica Fjacko, who was travelling from the Croatian capital Zagreb, said she had left earlier to make the journey because of the controls. "Now this is a bigger chaos, people are worried,"&nbsp;she said.

Explaining the decision to introduce border controls, the Slovenian government cited security threats that may come from what it said were "members of various terrorist and extremist movements and groups" moving from areas of armed conflict and aiming to reach Europe. The government also cited a rise of organised crime in the western Balkans.

Earlier, Italy had introduced controls on its border crossing with Slovenia to improve home security. The government said that authorities in the northeastern border region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia had identified 16,000 people so far this year who had entered Italy illegally across the Slovenian border.

Slovenia, Italy, Croatia, and Hungary are among the 27 countries that belong to the Schengen area, the world’s largest free travel zone. The Schengen nations can temporarily reintroduce border controls “in the event of a serious threat to public policy or internal security.”

Italy and Slovenia's decisions reflect the increasing security concerns in Europe due to the intensifying war between Israel and Hamas, the news agency Associated Press reported.

On Thursday, European Union (EU) interior ministers debated how to manage the impact of the war on the 27-nation bloc following a firebomb assault on a synagogue in Berlin and killings in Belgium by suspected Islamic extremists.

EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson said in Luxembourg that the commission is looking into the issue of internal border checks, which she described as one of the challenges of the Schengen area.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Slovenia on Saturday (Oct 21) deployed police on border crossings with Croatia and Hungary to prevent potential security threats. The deployment comes a day after the government decided to introduce temporary border controls until October 30.

Slovenia on Saturday (Oct 21) deployed police on border crossings with Croatia and Hungary to prevent potential security threats. The deployment comes a day after the government decided to introduce temporary border controls until October 30. According to a report by the news agency STA, police were deployed on 14 border crossings with Croatia and Hungary. Long queues were seen at border crossings as travellers waited to have their documents checked. Katica Fjacko, who was travelling from the Croatian capital Zagreb, said she had left earlier to make the journey because of the controls. "Now this is a bigger chaos, people are worried," she said. Explaining the decision to introduce border controls, the Slovenian government cited security threats that may come from what it said were "members of various terrorist and extremist movements and groups" moving from areas of armed conflict and aiming to reach Europe. The government also cited a rise of organised crime in the western Balkans. Earlier, Italy had introduced controls on its border crossing with Slovenia to improve home security. The government said that authorities in the northeastern border region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia had identified 16,000 people so far this year who had entered Italy illegally across the Slovenian border. Slovenia, Italy, Croatia, and Hungary are among the 27 countries that belong to the Schengen area, the world’s largest free travel zone. The Schengen nations can temporarily reintroduce border controls “in the event of a serious threat to public policy or internal security.” Italy and Slovenia's decisions reflect the increasing security concerns in Europe due to the intensifying war between Israel and Hamas, the news agency Associated Press reported. On Thursday, European Union (EU) interior ministers debated how to manage the impact of the war on the 27-nation bloc following a firebomb assault on a synagogue in Berlin and killings in Belgium by suspected Islamic extremists. EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson said in Luxembourg that the commission is looking into the issue of internal border checks, which she described as one of the challenges of the Schengen area. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Slovenia deploys police on border crossings with Croatia, Hungary

Slovenia's nuclear power plant located around 100 km east of the capital has begun a preventive shutdown. According to the plant operator statement, the decision was taken following the detection of a leak in the containment building is the country's only nuclear power plant.

Slovenia begins preventive shutdown of Nuclear plant

At least six people were killed in Slovenia currently witnessing the worst floods on record which have swept away homes and clogged villages with debris, while the clean-up operations continued&nbsp;on Monday (August 7), said the local officials and media.&nbsp;

<h2>Record-breaking rains and floods</h2>

Heavy rains in central and northern Slovenia have led to flash floods and landslides which began on Thursday and have since submerged large parts of the region, cutting off access to villages and disrupting traffic.

So far, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-3-killed-amid-heavy-rains-floods-in-slovenia-and-austria-622506">two Dutch men</a> believed struck by lightning and four Slovenians have been killed or drowned in the chaos, since Friday, reported state news agency STA citing police.&nbsp;

Emergency workers recovered the body of a 35-year-old man in a river near the village of Mirna Perc, on Sunday. According to the police, another man, who was a part of the clean-up operations, was found dead after falling into a cesspit near the town of Kamnik.&nbsp;

Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/slovenia-pm-worst-disaster-in-our-history-622951">described</a> the torrential rains and severe flooding, that the country of two million is witnessing, as its worst natural disaster since independence three decades ago.

In an update, on Monday, reports said that the rescue workers were in the midst of trying to reopen roads to the isolated places and were also assessing the damage. The Slovenian Environment Agency said floods were starting to recede on Monday, but some areas were still cut off.

Meanwhile, civil protection authorities were keeping an eye on flood-hit areas where landslides pose a threat to infrastructure and houses. This comes as residents from villages along the river Mura had to be evacuated on Sunday night after a part of the levee collapsed.

The body of a man was also recovered in the neighbouring country Austria from a river in Carinthia state, parts of which have also been affected due to heavy rains and floods.&nbsp;

<h2>What’s the damage?</h2>

According to reports, the damage to buildings and bridges caused by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-not-a-typical-flood-event-heavy-rains-landslides-hit-in-parts-of-slovenia-austria-622517">floods</a> is worth around $549 million. “The material damage is not so important. The important thing is we saved our lives on time,” said Drago Hudofisk, in the village of Prevalje, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

As per the media report, Hudofisk is part of an eight-member family home that was swept away by a river over the weekend. “You know, nature fights back against everything (we do). Water has the power, it destroys everything,” he added.&nbsp;

<h2>EU countries help disaster-hit Slovenia</h2>

Slovenia, a European Union member, has asked for help from the 27-nation bloc and sought heavy machinery, such as excavators and engineering units. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she will visit Slovenia on Wednesday, “to witness on the ground the destruction caused by the floods and discuss EU support.”&nbsp;

Slovenia also requested helicopters, soldiers and prefabricated bridges from NATO. Meanwhile, the first truck carrying humanitarian help and food arrived from Hungary late Sunday, followed by a helicopter.&nbsp;

Croatia also provided a military helicopter to help close and secure a broken levee on the Mura River. Germany said it is sending emergency workers and expressed “dismay” over the “terrible flood catastrophe in Slovenia and Austria.”

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

At least six people were killed in Slovenia currently witnessing the worst floods on record which have swept away homes and clogged villages with debris, while the clean-up operations continued on Monday (August 7), said the local officials and media.

At least six people were killed in Slovenia currently witnessing the worst floods on record which have swept away homes and clogged villages with debris, while the clean-up operations continued on Monday (August 7), said the local officials and media. Record-breaking rains and floods Heavy rains in central and northern Slovenia have led to flash floods and landslides which began on Thursday and have since submerged large parts of the region, cutting off access to villages and disrupting traffic. So far, two Dutch men believed struck by lightning and four Slovenians have been killed or drowned in the chaos, since Friday, reported state news agency STA citing police. Emergency workers recovered the body of a 35-year-old man in a river near the village of Mirna Perc, on Sunday. According to the police, another man, who was a part of the clean-up operations, was found dead after falling into a cesspit near the town of Kamnik. Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob has described the torrential rains and severe flooding, that the country of two million is witnessing, as its worst natural disaster since independence three decades ago. In an update, on Monday, reports said that the rescue workers were in the midst of trying to reopen roads to the isolated places and were also assessing the damage. The Slovenian Environment Agency said floods were starting to recede on Monday, but some areas were still cut off. Meanwhile, civil protection authorities were keeping an eye on flood-hit areas where landslides pose a threat to infrastructure and houses. This comes as residents from villages along the river Mura had to be evacuated on Sunday night after a part of the levee collapsed. The body of a man was also recovered in the neighbouring country Austria from a river in Carinthia state, parts of which have also been affected due to heavy rains and floods. What’s the damage? According to reports, the damage to buildings and bridges caused by the floods is worth around $549 million. “The material damage is not so important. The important thing is we saved our lives on time,” said Drago Hudofisk, in the village of Prevalje, as quoted by Reuters. As per the media report, Hudofisk is part of an eight-member family home that was swept away by a river over the weekend. “You know, nature fights back against everything (we do). Water has the power, it destroys everything,” he added. EU countries help disaster-hit Slovenia Slovenia, a European Union member, has asked for help from the 27-nation bloc and sought heavy machinery, such as excavators and engineering units. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she will visit Slovenia on Wednesday, “to witness on the ground the destruction caused by the floods and discuss EU support.” Slovenia also requested helicopters, soldiers and prefabricated bridges from NATO. Meanwhile, the first truck carrying humanitarian help and food arrived from Hungary late Sunday, followed by a helicopter. Croatia also provided a military helicopter to help close and secure a broken levee on the Mura River. Germany said it is sending emergency workers and expressed “dismay” over the “terrible flood catastrophe in Slovenia and Austria.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Death toll rises to six after Slovenia’s worst floods on record, EU and NATO to send aid

The Slovenian prime minister Robert Golob said that the Alpine nation is facing its biggest natural disaster yet. Floods have ravaged almost two-thirds of Slovenia while Rescuers are struggling to reach the High Altitude areas. Villages in the Northwestern parts of the country are submerged in flood waters.

Slovenia PM on floods: 'Worst' disaster in our history

At least three people were killed after floods and landslides caused by heavy rains in northeastern and central parts of Slovenia, said officials, on Friday (August 4). Meanwhile, no deaths or injuries were immediately reported in neighbouring southern Austria, where some villages were disrupted due to floods.&nbsp;

<h2>Slovenia on ‘red alert’</h2>

The Slovenian environmental agency issued a “red alert” – the highest level&nbsp;– after a month’s amount of rain fell within 24 hours in the capital Ljubljana, along with Maribor and Celje. “Three people have died over the last 24 hours in weather-related incidents,” police spokeswoman Maja Adlesic told AFP.&nbsp;

Among those killed&nbsp;were two Dutch citizens in the mountains surrounding Kranj affected by the storms, reported Slovenian news agency STA. The third person was said to be an elderly Slovenian woman who&nbsp;died in the flooded town of Kamnik. 
 
However, the exact circumstances of their deaths remain unknown and are currently under investigation, said the police.&nbsp;The Dutch officials also confirmed the deaths but not the cause. 
 
According to the country’s meteorologists, heavy rains will continue for at least the next 24 hours. Officials in Slovenia, on Friday, also warned of more floods in other areas because of swiftly swelling rivers.

<h2>Damage and evacuations in parts of Slovenia</h2>

Authorities have ordered the&nbsp;evacuation of several thousand people in parts of the town of Celje along the surging Savinja River. This comes after the same river swept away houses and caused landslides in the town of Ljubno.&nbsp;

According to Slovenian media reports, flooding has caused the closure of the highway connecting the capital Ljubljana with the country’s north as well as some railway lines. This comes after rivers in the nearby areas have overflowed, and bridges as well as several houses have reportedly been destroyed.&nbsp;

So far, around 16,000 households suffered power cuts and several villages were reported to be inaccessible. “Some areas are completely cut off and communication is also difficult,” said the country’s civil protection chief Srecko Sestan.&nbsp;

This comes as rescuers, on Friday struggled to reach flooded areas and issued a public call for rubber boats in parts of the county which had been cut off because of road closures and impassibility due to landslides.

<h2>'Serious situation'&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

In the town of Skofja Loka, vehicles and trucks were submerged or taken by torrents, as per Reuters, people were evacuated using helicopters. “We have not seen floods like these not just in 500 years, but in a 1,000 years,” Roman Kocilija, chief of the rescuers in the village of Most pri Komendi, told Slovenia’s N1 television.&nbsp;

The administration for civil protection and disaster relief recorded more than 1,000 weather-related incidents within 12 hours across the country, reported STA. Additionally, over 100 buildings including a sports hall were flooded in Skofja Loka where roads were also blocked.&nbsp;

“The situation is serious,” Defence Minister Marjan Sarec told reporters, adding that the army had joined rescue and firefighter teams to help citizens in the most affected areas. He also urged people to stay at home and not drive anywhere.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob returned to the country after&nbsp;cutting&nbsp;his vacation short and&nbsp;met&nbsp;with civil protection staff on Friday afternoon.

<h2>What’s happening in Austria?</h2>

Similarly, in Austria roads to some villages in the southern state of Carinthia were blocked, reported the local authorities, on Friday while the district of Volkermarkt, bordering Slovenia particularly badly affected.&nbsp;

Residents in St. Paul in the Lavanttal Valley of Carinthia were also asked to stay on the upper floors and avoid basements and bridges. As of Friday morning, around 4,000 households were without electricity, as per the utility company Energie Steiermark.&nbsp;

<h2>Croatia and Bosnia next?</h2>

Forecasters in Slovenia also warned that the heavy rain and floods are expected to spread to neighbouring Croatia and Bosnia further to the south.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
 
 
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

At least three people were killed after floods and landslides caused by heavy rains in northeastern and central parts of Slovenia, said officials, on Friday (August 4).

At least three people were killed after floods and landslides caused by heavy rains in northeastern and central parts of Slovenia, said officials, on Friday (August 4). Meanwhile, no deaths or injuries were immediately reported in neighbouring southern Austria, where some villages were disrupted due to floods. Slovenia on ‘red alert’ The Slovenian environmental agency issued a “red alert” – the highest level – after a month’s amount of rain fell within 24 hours in the capital Ljubljana, along with Maribor and Celje. “Three people have died over the last 24 hours in weather-related incidents,” police spokeswoman Maja Adlesic told AFP. Among those killed were two Dutch citizens in the mountains surrounding Kranj affected by the storms, reported Slovenian news agency STA. The third person was said to be an elderly Slovenian woman who died in the flooded town of Kamnik. However, the exact circumstances of their deaths remain unknown and are currently under investigation, said the police. The Dutch officials also confirmed the deaths but not the cause. According to the country’s meteorologists, heavy rains will continue for at least the next 24 hours. Officials in Slovenia, on Friday, also warned of more floods in other areas because of swiftly swelling rivers. Damage and evacuations in parts of Slovenia Authorities have ordered the evacuation of several thousand people in parts of the town of Celje along the surging Savinja River. This comes after the same river swept away houses and caused landslides in the town of Ljubno. According to Slovenian media reports, flooding has caused the closure of the highway connecting the capital Ljubljana with the country’s north as well as some railway lines. This comes after rivers in the nearby areas have overflowed, and bridges as well as several houses have reportedly been destroyed. So far, around 16,000 households suffered power cuts and several villages were reported to be inaccessible. “Some areas are completely cut off and communication is also difficult,” said the country’s civil protection chief Srecko Sestan. This comes as rescuers, on Friday struggled to reach flooded areas and issued a public call for rubber boats in parts of the county which had been cut off because of road closures and impassibility due to landslides. 'Serious situation' In the town of Skofja Loka, vehicles and trucks were submerged or taken by torrents, as per Reuters, people were evacuated using helicopters. “We have not seen floods like these not just in 500 years, but in a 1,000 years,” Roman Kocilija, chief of the rescuers in the village of Most pri Komendi, told Slovenia’s N1 television. The administration for civil protection and disaster relief recorded more than 1,000 weather-related incidents within 12 hours across the country, reported STA. Additionally, over 100 buildings including a sports hall were flooded in Skofja Loka where roads were also blocked. “The situation is serious,” Defence Minister Marjan Sarec told reporters, adding that the army had joined rescue and firefighter teams to help citizens in the most affected areas. He also urged people to stay at home and not drive anywhere. Meanwhile, Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob returned to the country after cutting his vacation short and met with civil protection staff on Friday afternoon. What’s happening in Austria? Similarly, in Austria roads to some villages in the southern state of Carinthia were blocked, reported the local authorities, on Friday while the district of Volkermarkt, bordering Slovenia particularly badly affected. Residents in St. Paul in the Lavanttal Valley of Carinthia were also asked to stay on the upper floors and avoid basements and bridges. As of Friday morning, around 4,000 households were without electricity, as per the utility company Energie Steiermark. Croatia and Bosnia next? Forecasters in Slovenia also warned that the heavy rain and floods are expected to spread to neighbouring Croatia and Bosnia further to the south. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

At least 3 killed amid heavy rains, floods in Slovenia and Austria

Friday's torrential downpours in Slovenia's northern and western regions resulted in at least two fatalities as well as flooding, power outages, and traffic disruptions. According to the Slovenian press agency STA, two Dutch men perished, possibly from lightning strikes. The deaths were confirmed by the Dutch authorities, but the cause was not.

Slovenian army deploys rubber boats, helicopters for evacuation

In pics | 'Not a typical flood event': Heavy rains, landslides hit in parts of Slovenia, Austria

People watched in awe as the world-renowned Lipizzan horses put on a dazzling show this month in the village of Lipica in the small Alpine state of Slovenia.

The home of one of the world's most distinguished horse breeds - and seven countries in the region that once were part of the Habsburg Empire - have reason to celebrate.

Their shared tradition of Lipizzan breeding recently made UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

The noble Lipizzans, also known as Lipizzaners, are descendants of long stallion lines crossing Spanish, Arabic and Berber horses and were first bred by the Habsburg court in the 16th century.

They are famous for their "airs above the ground" classical dressage jumps - a series of difficult movements requiring strength and precision, in which the horse's feet leave the ground.

This rare breed, featuring white hair but grey skin - is also famed as a carriage horse. The name derives from tiny Lipica, nestled among Slovenia's verdant hills and lush forests.

The picturesque village is home to one of the world's oldest stud farms, which dates back to 1580 and currently stables more than 400 blue-blooded horses.

"This is the Lipizzan's home," said Slovenian culture minister Asta Vrecko, ahead of the UNESCO ceremony last weekend.

The event was attended by the eight countries that jointly applied for recognition of their shared breeding heritage -- Austria, Bosnia, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia.

For a moment, time stood still as horses and riders from the eight nations performed their dressage and driving exhibition.

"They are phenomenal animals. The way that they've been trained and the level of skill of the riders is incredible," said 42-year-old horse farm owner Laura Highlander, who travelled all the way from the United States to see the horses.

"I was super excited to be able to come... and see them in their training," she added after visiting the Lipica stud farm.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/melbourne-club-slammed-for-use-of-live-reptiles-at-relaunch-party-597857">ALSO READ |&nbsp;Melbourne club slammed for use of live reptiles at relaunch party</a>

<h2>Equine ballet</h2>

Dark at birth, the Lipizzan horses' coat turns white by the time they are about four years old, which is also when their demanding training starts and the most promising stallions are selected.

"Lipizzans can have a strong temperament. They are usually serene, sometimes shy. They are kind and it is up to us to recognise the quality of each horse," Miro Dragic, head of the Lipica stud farm riders' team, told AFP.

If health permits, these athletic equine stars can be worth up to several hundred thousand euros (dollars) each and can remain active well into their mid-20s

Only the best stallions will be trained in the elitist "haute ecole" of classical dressage to eventually master an equine ballet of cantering, caprioles and pirouettes.

The riders, who sport tailcoats and Napoleonic bicorne hats, must also be at the top of their game to get the best from their sensitive partners.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-woman-survives-five-days-in-bush-drinking-only-wine-trending-on-wion-590535">WATCH |&nbsp;Australia woman survives five days in bush drinking only wine | Trending on WION</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-woman-survives-five-days-in-bush-drinking-only-wine-trending-on-wion-590535/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/woman-screams-after-spotting-cockroach-in-tel-aviv-cafe-people-flee-thinking-it-to-be-terror-attack-597802#" id="jqclosemark">×</a>

"With horses it's like with people. There are many external elements -- weather included - that can affect them," stableman Amadej Cej told AFP while grooming one of his elegant stallions.

It's stablemen like Cej who spend quality time with these beautiful creatures, attending to their every need "from birth until their end".

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

People watched in awe as the world-renowned Lipizzan horses put on a dazzling show this month in the village of Lipica in the small Alpine state of Slovenia. The home of one of the world's most distinguished horse breeds - and seven countries in the region that once were part of the Habsburg Empire - have reason to celebrate.

People watched in awe as the world-renowned Lipizzan horses put on a dazzling show this month in the village of Lipica in the small Alpine state of Slovenia. The home of one of the world's most distinguished horse breeds - and seven countries in the region that once were part of the Habsburg Empire - have reason to celebrate. Their shared tradition of Lipizzan breeding recently made UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The noble Lipizzans, also known as Lipizzaners, are descendants of long stallion lines crossing Spanish, Arabic and Berber horses and were first bred by the Habsburg court in the 16th century. They are famous for their "airs above the ground" classical dressage jumps - a series of difficult movements requiring strength and precision, in which the horse's feet leave the ground. This rare breed, featuring white hair but grey skin - is also famed as a carriage horse. The name derives from tiny Lipica, nestled among Slovenia's verdant hills and lush forests. The picturesque village is home to one of the world's oldest stud farms, which dates back to 1580 and currently stables more than 400 blue-blooded horses. "This is the Lipizzan's home," said Slovenian culture minister Asta Vrecko, ahead of the UNESCO ceremony last weekend. The event was attended by the eight countries that jointly applied for recognition of their shared breeding heritage -- Austria, Bosnia, Croatia, Hungary, Italy, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia. For a moment, time stood still as horses and riders from the eight nations performed their dressage and driving exhibition. "They are phenomenal animals. The way that they've been trained and the level of skill of the riders is incredible," said 42-year-old horse farm owner Laura Highlander, who travelled all the way from the United States to see the horses. "I was super excited to be able to come... and see them in their training," she added after visiting the Lipica stud farm. ALSO READ | Melbourne club slammed for use of live reptiles at relaunch party Equine ballet Dark at birth, the Lipizzan horses' coat turns white by the time they are about four years old, which is also when their demanding training starts and the most promising stallions are selected. "Lipizzans can have a strong temperament. They are usually serene, sometimes shy. They are kind and it is up to us to recognise the quality of each horse," Miro Dragic, head of the Lipica stud farm riders' team, told AFP. If health permits, these athletic equine stars can be worth up to several hundred thousand euros (dollars) each and can remain active well into their mid-20s Only the best stallions will be trained in the elitist "haute ecole" of classical dressage to eventually master an equine ballet of cantering, caprioles and pirouettes. The riders, who sport tailcoats and Napoleonic bicorne hats, must also be at the top of their game to get the best from their sensitive partners. WATCH | Australia woman survives five days in bush drinking only wine | Trending on WION × "With horses it's like with people. There are many external elements -- weather included - that can affect them," stableman Amadej Cej told AFP while grooming one of his elegant stallions. It's stablemen like Cej who spend quality time with these beautiful creatures, attending to their every need "from birth until their end". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

UNESCO recognition for majestic Lipizzan horses celebrated by Slovenia

The Italian tourism ministry found itself in hot waters after its official video aimed at attracting tourists to the nation used footage of people in Slovenia drinking Slovenian wine. Critics mocked the campaign on social media even before it emerged that part of it had been shot abroad.

News agency Reuters reported that the video was part of a $9.91 million campaign, which has been produced by the Armando Testa communications group. It was widely criticised even within the government.&nbsp;

The campaign, titled "Open to Meraviglia" (Open to Wonder), features Sandro Botticelli's Venus as a "virtual influencer". Venus is a symbol of Italian art and it has been depicted by Botticelli in his Renaissance masterpiece The Birth of Venus.&nbsp;

In the video, the computerised "Venus" was seen donning a mini-skirt and is shown eating pizza and presenting some of Italy's main tourist attractions such as Rome's Coliseum or Florence's cathedral.&nbsp;

Art historian Tomaso Montanari called the advertising campaign "grotesque" and an "obscene" waste of money.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heres-how-a-german-magazine-fell-for-hitlers-fake-diaries-which-are-set-to-be-made-public-586277">Here's how a German magazine fell for Hitler's fake diaries which are set to be made public</a>&nbsp;

Italian culture undersecretary and outspoken art critic Vittorio Sgarbi told La Repubblica newspaper, "Since Venus is naked, it would have been better to see her that way, without needing to dress her up like this." 
 
Sgarbi described the campaign as "the stuff of Ferragni", (referring to social media influencer Chiara Ferragni) and asked: "Open to meraviglia? What's that about? What language is it?"&nbsp;

Many users of Italian social media platforms have mocked the video for its most controversial part, showing a group of young people smiling on a sunlit patio drinking wine in what is presented as a typical Italian scene.&nbsp;

The controversy erupted when some eagle-eyed viewers spotted that the patio in question is actually in the Cotar region of Slovenia, which is close to the Italian border, and the bottle on the table has a Cotar wine label, which is Slovenian, not Italian.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jacinda-ardern-joins-harvard-university-takes-up-online-extremism-and-leadership-roles-586236">Jacinda Ardern joins Harvard University, to work on online extremism and leadership roles</a>&nbsp;

The Armando communications group has not responded to the criticism yet, but the Italian Tourism Minister Daniela Santanche, a member of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party, called critics of the video "snobs".&nbsp;

Santanche added that the depiction of Venus as an influencer was aimed at attracting young people.&nbsp;

Santanchè told Radio RTL 102.5 at the weekend: "Regarding the memes circulating on the net, I had a laugh. I consciously chose Botticelli's Venus, an icon known throughout the world and a symbol of our Italian spirit."&nbsp;

For the attacks on pizza-making campaign, Santanchè said: "I don't understand the criticism, pizza is famous all over the world, it is part of the Mediterranean diet and of our cuisine, which is appreciated, imitated and copied all over the world. Perhaps it is criticised by the slightly snobby and radical chic people who eat caviar and salmon."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The Italian tourism ministry found itself in hot waters after its official video aimed at attracting tourists to the nation used footage of people in Slovenia drinking Slovenian wine.

The Italian tourism ministry found itself in hot waters after its official video aimed at attracting tourists to the nation used footage of people in Slovenia drinking Slovenian wine. Critics mocked the campaign on social media even before it emerged that part of it had been shot abroad. News agency Reuters reported that the video was part of a $9.91 million campaign, which has been produced by the Armando Testa communications group. It was widely criticised even within the government. The campaign, titled "Open to Meraviglia" (Open to Wonder), features Sandro Botticelli's Venus as a "virtual influencer". Venus is a symbol of Italian art and it has been depicted by Botticelli in his Renaissance masterpiece The Birth of Venus. In the video, the computerised "Venus" was seen donning a mini-skirt and is shown eating pizza and presenting some of Italy's main tourist attractions such as Rome's Coliseum or Florence's cathedral. Art historian Tomaso Montanari called the advertising campaign "grotesque" and an "obscene" waste of money. ALSO READ | Here's how a German magazine fell for Hitler's fake diaries which are set to be made public Italian culture undersecretary and outspoken art critic Vittorio Sgarbi told La Repubblica newspaper, "Since Venus is naked, it would have been better to see her that way, without needing to dress her up like this." Sgarbi described the campaign as "the stuff of Ferragni", (referring to social media influencer Chiara Ferragni) and asked: "Open to meraviglia? What's that about? What language is it?" Many users of Italian social media platforms have mocked the video for its most controversial part, showing a group of young people smiling on a sunlit patio drinking wine in what is presented as a typical Italian scene. The controversy erupted when some eagle-eyed viewers spotted that the patio in question is actually in the Cotar region of Slovenia, which is close to the Italian border, and the bottle on the table has a Cotar wine label, which is Slovenian, not Italian. ALSO READ | Jacinda Ardern joins Harvard University, to work on online extremism and leadership roles The Armando communications group has not responded to the criticism yet, but the Italian Tourism Minister Daniela Santanche, a member of Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy party, called critics of the video "snobs". Santanche added that the depiction of Venus as an influencer was aimed at attracting young people. Santanchè told Radio RTL 102.5 at the weekend: "Regarding the memes circulating on the net, I had a laugh. I consciously chose Botticelli's Venus, an icon known throughout the world and a symbol of our Italian spirit." For the attacks on pizza-making campaign, Santanchè said: "I don't understand the criticism, pizza is famous all over the world, it is part of the Mediterranean diet and of our cuisine, which is appreciated, imitated and copied all over the world. Perhaps it is criticised by the slightly snobby and radical chic people who eat caviar and salmon." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Italy tourism campaign video mocked for featuring Slovenian wine and virtual Venus

New Delhi has become the busiest geopolitical hotspot this March, with foreign ministers landing and taking off after setting up bilateral and multilateral matters of importance during India's ongoing tenure as president of the Group of 20 nations. Amid G-20 foreign ministers meet, WION's diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal caught up&nbsp;with Slovenia's foreign minister Tanja Fajon.

Here are the excerpts from the exclusive interview:

How do you see Slovenia's relationship with India?

India is globally very important&nbsp;strategic partner to the European Union, and of course Slovenia. Slovenia is a very small country but&nbsp;we have quite some business with pharmaceutical,&nbsp;locomotive, construction. We also have interest to work in the field of science, research, artificial intelligence. There is lot of potential not only in the businesses. We are also having exchange of students. In tourism, people of Slovenia love to visit India.

How do you see India's role as G20 president?

India plays a very important role to keep the world peace and stability. India is a fast growing economy and ow it's heading the G20. For me, it's very important that India tries to preserve peace and world order in the ways that the&nbsp;UN charter is respected. We have very complex and fragmented world. The geopolitical picture has changed with the war jn Ukraine. We have to do everything to understand &nbsp;each other to find partners in the world, to protect the peace and order and international rule established by the UN charter.

How Ukraine&nbsp;conflict is impacting your country?

It's affecting the world not only because of the energy crisis. But also for the reasons of&nbsp;food security. In Europe, Ukraine is not far away. This brutal Russian aggression is unacceptable &nbsp;We understand because no one can with force take away your land your territorial sovereignty. That is why Slovenia will help&nbsp;Ukraine as long as it takes but at the same time we have to strengthen our efforts to find diplomatic ways that negotiation for peace starts as soon as possible. Everyone want to see peace.

A very aggressive China is a worry in the Indo-Pacific, especially here in Delhi. The worldview is very different along India's northern border. What do you have to say about aggressive China?

I can say that China is a very important&nbsp;to the world and is becoming a rival. Of course, aggression has no&nbsp;place in the world of 21st century. But I am also very realistic that without China we can't address global challenges such as climate change.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Europe: Protests for climate change, activists demand action on carbon emissions

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/europe-protests-for-climate-change-activists-demand-action-on-carbon-emissions-568370/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

So we need this partnership on the topics where we have common interests but also say out&nbsp;loud and clear when some countries break international order and rules. Now I think the whole world is positioning a partnership.&nbsp;For Slovenia, it's important that we work together with like-minded countries with those respecting rules and also opening up our foreign policy.&nbsp;

What is your vision for Indo-Pacific?

Indo-Pacific is becoming very important strategically. More countries including Slovenia are preparing to position themselves into Indo-Pacific to strengthen our economic and political ties. But mostly, we need to work towards securing stability and peace. I think Indo-Pacific offers a lot of opportunity. But again we have to listen to each other, hear each other and really have a big picture to be able to work together.

We are preparing an outlook by redrafting our foreign policy in the light of the worrying situation in Ukraine. Slovenia also needs to open up to search for new allies and therefore we are also redrafting our strategy for&nbsp;Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

New Delhi has become the busiest geopolitical hotspot this March, with foreign ministers landing and taking off after setting up bilateral and multilateral matters of importance during India's ongoing tenure as president of the Group of 20 nations.

New Delhi has become the busiest geopolitical hotspot this March, with foreign ministers landing and taking off after setting up bilateral and multilateral matters of importance during India's ongoing tenure as president of the Group of 20 nations. Amid G-20 foreign ministers meet, WION's diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal caught up with Slovenia's foreign minister Tanja Fajon. Here are the excerpts from the exclusive interview: How do you see Slovenia's relationship with India? India is globally very important strategic partner to the European Union, and of course Slovenia. Slovenia is a very small country but we have quite some business with pharmaceutical, locomotive, construction. We also have interest to work in the field of science, research, artificial intelligence. There is lot of potential not only in the businesses. We are also having exchange of students. In tourism, people of Slovenia love to visit India. How do you see India's role as G20 president? India plays a very important role to keep the world peace and stability. India is a fast growing economy and ow it's heading the G20. For me, it's very important that India tries to preserve peace and world order in the ways that the UN charter is respected. We have very complex and fragmented world. The geopolitical picture has changed with the war jn Ukraine. We have to do everything to understand each other to find partners in the world, to protect the peace and order and international rule established by the UN charter. How Ukraine conflict is impacting your country? It's affecting the world not only because of the energy crisis. But also for the reasons of food security. In Europe, Ukraine is not far away. This brutal Russian aggression is unacceptable We understand because no one can with force take away your land your territorial sovereignty. That is why Slovenia will help Ukraine as long as it takes but at the same time we have to strengthen our efforts to find diplomatic ways that negotiation for peace starts as soon as possible. Everyone want to see peace. A very aggressive China is a worry in the Indo-Pacific, especially here in Delhi. The worldview is very different along India's northern border. What do you have to say about aggressive China? I can say that China is a very important to the world and is becoming a rival. Of course, aggression has no place in the world of 21st century. But I am also very realistic that without China we can't address global challenges such as climate change. ALSO WATCH | Europe: Protests for climate change, activists demand action on carbon emissions × So we need this partnership on the topics where we have common interests but also say out loud and clear when some countries break international order and rules. Now I think the whole world is positioning a partnership. For Slovenia, it's important that we work together with like-minded countries with those respecting rules and also opening up our foreign policy. What is your vision for Indo-Pacific? Indo-Pacific is becoming very important strategically. More countries including Slovenia are preparing to position themselves into Indo-Pacific to strengthen our economic and political ties. But mostly, we need to work towards securing stability and peace. I think Indo-Pacific offers a lot of opportunity. But again we have to listen to each other, hear each other and really have a big picture to be able to work together. We are preparing an outlook by redrafting our foreign policy in the light of the worrying situation in Ukraine. Slovenia also needs to open up to search for new allies and therefore we are also redrafting our strategy for Indo-Pacific. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's G20 role important for peace and stability in world: Slovenia's foreign minister Tanja Fajon

Slovenia Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon has termed India as European Union's "very important strategic partner". Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Slovenia Foreign Minister said, "India plays a very important role to keep the world peace and stability" as she extended support to the Indo Pacific vision." She also spoke about an aggressive China, Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Slovenia Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon speaks to WION on India being an important strategic partner

Liberal rights advocate Natasa Pirc Musar has won a runoff vote beating former foreign minister. Natasa Pirc Musar will be Slovenia’s next president country’s first female head of state.

Slovenia elects first woman president in a runoff vote

Natasa Pirc Musar, the candidate with the highest&nbsp;chance of becoming Slovenia's first female president is a lawyer who has collaborated with former US President Donald Trump's wife, Melania Trump.&nbsp;Pirc Musar is running against seasoned conservative politician Anze Logar with support from the centre-left administration.

During Donald Trump's&nbsp;presidency, Slovenian-born Melania Trump's interests were protected by Pirc Musar, a lawyer, by preventing businesses from trying to market goods using her name.

In a Mediana poll conducted by the Delo newspaper on Thursday, Pirc Musar, who has advocated for LGBTQ rights and served as the director of Slovenia's media watchdog, was in the lead with 51.7% of the vote. Unless attendance is extraordinarily low, Logar's 44.6% deficit will be tough for him to close.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-summons-iran-senior-diplomat-over-alleged-threats-to-journalists-533413">UK summons Iran's senior diplomat over alleged threats to journalists</a>

Her triumph would make her "the voice of women" in Slovenia and internationally, said Pirc Musar, who previously served at&nbsp;the nation's data protection authority for 10 years.&nbsp;

Pirc Musar, a well-known proponent of LGBTQ rights, predicted a "fight of principles." and that she anticipates participating in the runoff.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antigua-barbuda-proposes-to-overturn-decades-old-ban-on-commercial-whaling-526456">Antigua and Barbuda proposes to overturn decades-old ban on commercial whaling</a>

“Only a very naive person or an idealist can say that this election is not a battle between liberal and more conservative values," Pirc Musar told Slovenia's STA news agency.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Natasa Pirc Musar, the candidate with the highest chance of becoming Slovenia's first female president is a lawyer who has collaborated with former US President Donald Trump's wife, Melania Trump.

Natasa Pirc Musar, the candidate with the highest chance of becoming Slovenia's first female president is a lawyer who has collaborated with former US President Donald Trump's wife, Melania Trump. Pirc Musar is running against seasoned conservative politician Anze Logar with support from the centre-left administration. During Donald Trump's presidency, Slovenian-born Melania Trump's interests were protected by Pirc Musar, a lawyer, by preventing businesses from trying to market goods using her name. In a Mediana poll conducted by the Delo newspaper on Thursday, Pirc Musar, who has advocated for LGBTQ rights and served as the director of Slovenia's media watchdog, was in the lead with 51.7% of the vote. Unless attendance is extraordinarily low, Logar's 44.6% deficit will be tough for him to close. Also read | UK summons Iran's senior diplomat over alleged threats to journalists Her triumph would make her "the voice of women" in Slovenia and internationally, said Pirc Musar, who previously served at the nation's data protection authority for 10 years. Pirc Musar, a well-known proponent of LGBTQ rights, predicted a "fight of principles." and that she anticipates participating in the runoff. Also read | Antigua and Barbuda proposes to overturn decades-old ban on commercial whaling “Only a very naive person or an idealist can say that this election is not a battle between liberal and more conservative values," Pirc Musar told Slovenia's STA news agency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Melania Trump's lawyer inches closer to becoming Slovenia's first woman president, says poll

A family in Slovenia buried the wrong man due to an identity mix-up by a care home in the European country.

Following the alleged funeral of their grandfather, the family discovered that it was him but another man of the same age and from the same care home in Slovenia's eastern town of Zidani Most.

The incident left Slovenia's authorities red-faced and the health minister offered to resign from his designation.

Addressing a news conference, Health Minister Danijel Besic Loredan said "Somebody buried their father yesterday and today found out he was alive, while another family realised today that it was their father who died."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/my-cousins-are-killing-one-another-war-in-ukraine-splits-mixed-families-457947">Also read |&nbsp;'My cousins are killing one another': War in Ukraine splits mixed families</a>

Calling the mix-up ''totally unacceptable'', Besic Loredan apologised to the families of both the men and his condolences to the man who died.

Although the two residents were suffering from different health problems they were taken to the same hospital last week.

The wrong family was informed post the death and the mix-up was caught when the other man recovered and went back to the care home where the staff found the wrong identity tag on his wrist.

But by that time the other man's cremation and funeral had already taken place due to which the prime minister opened an investigation into the case of mistaken identity has been ordered and rejected the health minister's resignation.

(With in[uts from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A family in Slovenia buried the wrong man due to an identity mix-up by a care home in the European country. Following the alleged funeral of their grandfather, the family discovered that it was him but another man of the same age and from the same care home in Slovenia's eastern town of Zidani Most.

A family in Slovenia buried the wrong man due to an identity mix-up by a care home in the European country. Following the alleged funeral of their grandfather, the family discovered that it was him but another man of the same age and from the same care home in Slovenia's eastern town of Zidani Most. The incident left Slovenia's authorities red-faced and the health minister offered to resign from his designation. Addressing a news conference, Health Minister Danijel Besic Loredan said "Somebody buried their father yesterday and today found out he was alive, while another family realised today that it was their father who died." Also read | 'My cousins are killing one another': War in Ukraine splits mixed families Calling the mix-up ''totally unacceptable'', Besic Loredan apologised to the families of both the men and his condolences to the man who died. Although the two residents were suffering from different health problems they were taken to the same hospital last week. The wrong family was informed post the death and the mix-up was caught when the other man recovered and went back to the care home where the staff found the wrong identity tag on his wrist. But by that time the other man's cremation and funeral had already taken place due to which the prime minister opened an investigation into the case of mistaken identity has been ordered and rejected the health minister's resignation. (With in[uts from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here: ×

Slovenia: Family buries wrong man after identity mix-up by care home, health minister offers to resign

Italy is taking Slovenia to court over balsamic vinegar production. Italy says Slovenian plans to ‘standardise’ the name threaten traditional producers in Modena. Molly Gambhir tells you all about this courtroom showdown.

WION Fineprint: Italy takes Slovenia to court over balsamic vinegar

A wildfire is devouring Slovenia, and as it spreads across areas that were once First World War battlegrounds, it is colliding fatally with explosive ordnance that is more than a century old. A bomb from World War I burst while firemen were working nearby, according to media reports.

Despite being struck by shrapnel, there were no serious casualties among the firefighters. Because there have been so many explosions, authorities have ceased keeping track of detonations and are now only noting those that occur close to roads.

According to local media sources cited by Vice News, President Borut Pahor and Prime Minister Robert Golob visited the western Slovenian district of Kras on Sunday, where a huge fire that had been burning for 10 days appeared to be under control. Golob announced efforts to cope with the fire's aftermath and steps to prevent similar-sized incidents in the future.

According to local media sources, the fire is currently under control, but it will need to be closely watched for a few more days to make sure it doesn't reappear. 
 
<img alt="wildfire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee8270d9-2dc2-4c86-bddd-59eb4e3aef48" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/slovenia-AP.jpg" />

(Europe's wildfire threat eases but blaze grows in Slovenia)

The sources also stated that there are only a few hotspots left in the northern portion of the fire zone, where tiny subterranean flames are exploding.

The conflagration, which has affected around 5,000 acres of land, is being fought by more than 1,000 firefighters and Slovenian military personnel. The area where the fire is currently burning was the scene of 12 battles during World War I. Huge quantities of explosives were used, and almost 200,000 people were killed.

The removal of the military weaponry from Europe will probably take a further 100 years. The task was already dangerous and will become much more so if the earth continues to heat up unabatedly. 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

A wildfire is devouring Slovenia, and as it spreads across areas that were once First World War battlegrounds, it is colliding fatally with explosive ordnance that is more than a century old.

A wildfire is devouring Slovenia, and as it spreads across areas that were once First World War battlegrounds, it is colliding fatally with explosive ordnance that is more than a century old. A bomb from World War I burst while firemen were working nearby, according to media reports. Despite being struck by shrapnel, there were no serious casualties among the firefighters. Because there have been so many explosions, authorities have ceased keeping track of detonations and are now only noting those that occur close to roads. According to local media sources cited by Vice News, President Borut Pahor and Prime Minister Robert Golob visited the western Slovenian district of Kras on Sunday, where a huge fire that had been burning for 10 days appeared to be under control. Golob announced efforts to cope with the fire's aftermath and steps to prevent similar-sized incidents in the future. According to local media sources, the fire is currently under control, but it will need to be closely watched for a few more days to make sure it doesn't reappear. (Europe's wildfire threat eases but blaze grows in Slovenia) The sources also stated that there are only a few hotspots left in the northern portion of the fire zone, where tiny subterranean flames are exploding. The conflagration, which has affected around 5,000 acres of land, is being fought by more than 1,000 firefighters and Slovenian military personnel. The area where the fire is currently burning was the scene of 12 battles during World War I. Huge quantities of explosives were used, and almost 200,000 people were killed. The removal of the military weaponry from Europe will probably take a further 100 years. The task was already dangerous and will become much more so if the earth continues to heat up unabatedly. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wildfires detonating 100-year-old bombs from World War I in Slovenia

Slovenia’s three-time prime minister Janez Jansa was defeated in the national elections after the Freedom Movement (GS) won more votes than his Slovenian Democratic party. He was defeated Robert Golob who is a newcomer to Slovenian politics and had established his party in January.

With around two million people voting in the elections, GS won with a comfortable vote share of 34.5 per cent while Jansa’s SDS could manage only 23.6% of the total votes. Jansa was accused of undermining democratic institutions and the press in the past and that proved to be the decider.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-shanghai-battles-virus-wave-covid-19-clusters-detected-in-construction-sites-473559">Mass testing underway in Beijing, COVID-19 clusters detected in Shanghai</a>

When it comes to the seat share, the environmentalist Freedom Movement party got 40 seats compared to SDS’s 28 seats in the Slovenian parliament which has a total of 90 seats.

The turnout in the vote, in which some 1.7 million people were eligible to cast their ballots in the small Alpine country that is a member of the European Union and the NATO military alliance, was 68%, the election commission said according to a Reuters report.

Jansa had already served as prime minister between 2004 and 2008, and 2012-2013 but he was forced out of power withing one year of his second term after being accused in a corruption scandal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-has-designs-to-capture-other-countries-after-ukraine-says-zelensky-473173" hreflang="en">Russia has designs to capture other countries after Ukraine, says Zelensky</a>

Golob, who renamed the Green party into the Freedom Movement in January earlier this year, was a former power plant manager and the 55-year-old was able to tap into the dissent forming against Jansa which was clear from the massive turnout during the anti-government rallies around Slovenia.

“Our objective has been reached: a victory that will enable us to take the country back to freedom,”

“People want changes and have expressed their confidence in us as the only ones who can bring those changes,” he said earlier via a livestream from his home according to AFP.

WATCH |&nbsp;French Elections: A second term in office for centrist Emmanuel Macron

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/french-elections-a-second-term-in-office-for-centrist-emmanuel-macron-473533/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Slovenia’s three-time prime minister Janez Jansa was defeated in the national elections after the Freedom Movement (GS) won more votes than his Slovenian Democratic party.

Slovenia’s three-time prime minister Janez Jansa was defeated in the national elections after the Freedom Movement (GS) won more votes than his Slovenian Democratic party. He was defeated Robert Golob who is a newcomer to Slovenian politics and had established his party in January. With around two million people voting in the elections, GS won with a comfortable vote share of 34.5 per cent while Jansa’s SDS could manage only 23.6% of the total votes. Jansa was accused of undermining democratic institutions and the press in the past and that proved to be the decider. Also read | Mass testing underway in Beijing, COVID-19 clusters detected in Shanghai When it comes to the seat share, the environmentalist Freedom Movement party got 40 seats compared to SDS’s 28 seats in the Slovenian parliament which has a total of 90 seats. The turnout in the vote, in which some 1.7 million people were eligible to cast their ballots in the small Alpine country that is a member of the European Union and the NATO military alliance, was 68%, the election commission said according to a Reuters report. Jansa had already served as prime minister between 2004 and 2008, and 2012-2013 but he was forced out of power withing one year of his second term after being accused in a corruption scandal. Also read | Russia has designs to capture other countries after Ukraine, says Zelensky Golob, who renamed the Green party into the Freedom Movement in January earlier this year, was a former power plant manager and the 55-year-old was able to tap into the dissent forming against Jansa which was clear from the massive turnout during the anti-government rallies around Slovenia. “Our objective has been reached: a victory that will enable us to take the country back to freedom,” “People want changes and have expressed their confidence in us as the only ones who can bring those changes,” he said earlier via a livestream from his home according to AFP. WATCH | French Elections: A second term in office for centrist Emmanuel Macron

Political newcomer Robert Golob defeats Slovenian prime minister Janez Jansa in national elections

Taiwan is in talks to set up a representative office in Slovenia. China has slammed the move as 'dangerous' and 'shocking'. Why are more Central and East European states picking Taiwan over China? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Slovenia joins Lithuania in taking on China

Leaders from the European Union have been holding discussions as they look for how to deal with China and the United States at a summit in Slovenia.

EU leaders seek unity on how to face China, US, at Slovenia meeting

Benjamin Savsek won Slovenia's first gold medal in the men's canoe slalom on Monday after barrelling down the white-water course in Tokyo almost four seconds ahead of his nearest rival.

Lukas Rohan from the Czech Republic took silver with Germany's Sideris Tasiadis, who finished runner-up in 2012, getting bronze.

Savsek paddled through the difficult course straight after his German rival in 98.25 seconds, making him the only finalists to complete the course in under 100 seconds.

That run brought an end to the dominance of Slovakia and France in the event in which they had won every gold medal since the 1996 Atlanta Games.

"It's a nice step up from world champion to Olympic champion. I am really proud to achieve this," Savsek said.

"The course was pretty hard today," he added at a news conference wearing the gold medal presented to him by French three-times Olympic slalom champion Tony Estanguet.

Slovakian paddler Matej Benus, who was aiming to better his silver in Rio de Janeiro five years ago, ended sixth with Martin Thomas from France fifth.

Cloudy weather at the Kasai slalom centre next to Tokyo Bay made conditions easier for competitors after they battled through baking sun and warm water in the heats on Sunday, but the hot Japanese summer still made the going tough.

"The heat today was not as big a problem, it was much better, but the water is still hot," Savsek said.

Australia's Jessica Fox, who will attempt to take the women's kayak title tomorrow, had described the course as being like "bath water".

Despite only a handful of people watching from the stands, Savsek's victory was greeted enthusiastically by his team mates, with at least one jumping into the warm water to celebrate his near perfect run.

"It's not so easy without spectators. We have just the Olympic Games where we can race in front of thousands of people," said Rohan, whose father and coach Jiri Rohan won silver in the canoe slalom pairs in 1992 and 1996.

The pairs race was dropped from the Games in Rio to make way for women's canoe slalom.

Benjamin Savsek won Slovenia's first gold medal in the men's canoe slalom on Monday after barrelling down the white-water course in Tokyo almost four seconds ahead of his nearest rival.

Benjamin Savsek won Slovenia's first gold medal in the men's canoe slalom on Monday after barrelling down the white-water course in Tokyo almost four seconds ahead of his nearest rival. Lukas Rohan from the Czech Republic took silver with Germany's Sideris Tasiadis, who finished runner-up in 2012, getting bronze. Savsek paddled through the difficult course straight after his German rival in 98.25 seconds, making him the only finalists to complete the course in under 100 seconds. That run brought an end to the dominance of Slovakia and France in the event in which they had won every gold medal since the 1996 Atlanta Games. "It's a nice step up from world champion to Olympic champion. I am really proud to achieve this," Savsek said. "The course was pretty hard today," he added at a news conference wearing the gold medal presented to him by French three-times Olympic slalom champion Tony Estanguet. Slovakian paddler Matej Benus, who was aiming to better his silver in Rio de Janeiro five years ago, ended sixth with Martin Thomas from France fifth. Cloudy weather at the Kasai slalom centre next to Tokyo Bay made conditions easier for competitors after they battled through baking sun and warm water in the heats on Sunday, but the hot Japanese summer still made the going tough. "The heat today was not as big a problem, it was much better, but the water is still hot," Savsek said. Australia's Jessica Fox, who will attempt to take the women's kayak title tomorrow, had described the course as being like "bath water". Despite only a handful of people watching from the stands, Savsek's victory was greeted enthusiastically by his team mates, with at least one jumping into the warm water to celebrate his near perfect run. "It's not so easy without spectators. We have just the Olympic Games where we can race in front of thousands of people," said Rohan, whose father and coach Jiri Rohan won silver in the canoe slalom pairs in 1992 and 1996. The pairs race was dropped from the Games in Rio to make way for women's canoe slalom.

Tokyo Olympics: Canoeing- Benjamin Savsek wins Slovenia's first canoe slalom gold

Global Leadership Series: Watch Slovenia's Prime Minister Janez Janša in conversation with WION's Palki Sharma.

Watch Slovenia's Prime Minister Janez Janša in conversation with WION's Palki Sharma

slovenia

Slovenia, News on Slovenia, stories on Slovenia, articles on Slovenia, Slovenia stories at Wion, Slovenia news, Slovenia latest news