European Council President Criticizes Serbia's President for Visiting Russia, Assures Continued EU Path

Strategic Insights -

European Council President António Costa on Tuesday expressed concerns over Serbia's populist president, Aleksandar Vucic's, visit to Russia's Victory Day ceremonies, while reaffirming Belgrade's commitment to European Union accession. Costa stated that Vucic's visit was a moment to celebrate an event from the past, but that it cannot be celebrated alongside an invasion of another country. He emphasized the importance of Serbia reaffirming its commitment to the EU accession path.

Key Takeaways:

  • European Council President António Costa criticized Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic for visiting Russia's Victory Day ceremonies, citing the need to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
  • Serbia, despite its close relations with Russia, has formally expressed a desire to join the EU and has pledged to continue on the accession path.
  • President Vucic has maintained a delicate balance between maintaining traditional friendships with Russia and seeking EU entry, while facing internal pressure over corruption and authoritarianism.
  • Serbia's troubled path towards EU accession has been complicated by ongoing protests and separatist policies in various regions of the country.
  • The European Union's willingness to accept new members has grown since the invasion of Ukraine, with several Western Balkan countries seeking to join the EU.
  • Serbia, Bosnia, Kosovo, and North Macedonia are lagging behind Montenegro and Albania in the EU accession process, with some policymakers citing concerns over corruption, rule of law, and separatist policies.

Statistics:

  • 16 people died in a train station tragedy in Serbia's north, sparking anti-corruption protests that have continued for six months.
  • Serbia relies almost fully on Russia for energy, and has refused to join Western sanctions on Russia over the invasion of Ukraine.
  • A U.N. resolution criticizing Russia's attack has been supported by Belgrade, in contrast with most EU statements condemning the aggression.
  • The number of protesters has evolved significantly over the six months since the protests began, with a recent relay-style marathon in Brussels by Serbian university students drawing EU attention to their struggle for justice and the rule of law.

Sources:

  • Reuters
  • Al Jazeera
  • European Commission