How Russia Replaced the Loss of Diplomats in Slovenia

Russia has suffered the sharpest reduction in diplomatic representation in Slovenia over the past decade. The number of accredited Russian diplomats has fallen from 22 to just five, with the decisive turning point coming after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.

Slovenia demanded a substantial reduction in Russia’s mission in Ljubljana after the invasion began. The measure narrowed the possibilities for conventional diplomatic work, but it did not cut off the other channels through which Russia maintains a presence and contacts in Slovenia.

The effects are most visible in official diplomacy. Tensions between the European Union and Russia, and between NATO and Russia, have made ordinary contacts far more restricted than before the war. Russia’s embassy now operates mainly around essential diplomatic activities, former European lawmaker and defense expert Klemen Grošelj assesses.

Moscow, he says, has adapted to the new circumstances. Within the framework of formal diplomatic relations, Russia consistently adheres to the rules of the Vienna Convention. The reduced mission has therefore constrained traditional diplomacy without ending Russia’s broader engagement in Slovenia.