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Serbia’s EU Aspirations Face Setback Over Potential Moscow Visit
Belgrade’s ambition to join the European Union could be jeopardized if President Aleksandar Vucic attends Vladimir Putin’s Victory Day parade in Moscow next month. Russian state media reports that Vucic has been invited to the May 9th celebration, a move that has prompted unease among European officials and could impact Serbia’s path toward EU membership. The prospective visit is viewed with concern in Brussels and other European capitals.
EU Officials Express Reservations
European Union officials have cautioned that President Vucic’s participation in the Moscow parade might impede Serbia’s EU accession process, perceiving it as a violation of membership requirements. Jonatan Vseviov, a senior official from Estonia’s foreign ministry, articulated the EU’s stance, stating that such decisions have ramifications. He implied that attending the parade could negatively affect Serbia’s EU membership prospects.
“Litmus Test” for Serbia’s Allegiance
Vseviov further elaborated that Russia is actively seeking to encourage attendance at the Victory Day event. From the EU’s perspective, Serbia’s choice regarding participation will serve as a crucial indicator of its geopolitical alignment. He suggested it would reveal whether Serbia is aligning with the European consensus or siding with Russia.
Serbia’s EU Membership Journey and Balancing Act
Serbia initiated its EU membership application in 2009 and attained candidate status in 2012. However, Belgrade has historically navigated a complex relationship, maintaining ties with both Russia and Europe. This delicate balancing act was evident when President Vucic hosted Vladimir Putin in Belgrade in 2019.
Sanctions Stance and Russian Influence
Belgrade’s reluctance to implement EU-imposed sanctions against Russia is already considered a factor that could undermine its EU aspirations. Furthermore, Russia possesses considerable leverage in Serbia, owning the nation’s sole oil refinery, which contributes to Serbia’s economic reliance on Moscow.
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EU’s Top Diplomat Voices Concern
Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s high representative for foreign affairs, indicated that the potential presence of leaders from EU member states or candidate countries at the Moscow event was discussed at a recent EU meeting. She informed reporters that numerous member states voiced strong objections, emphasizing that any involvement in the May 9th parades or celebrations in Moscow would be viewed unfavorably by the European Union, particularly given Russia’s ongoing full-scale conflict in Europe.
Warnings Against Attending Victory Day Ceremony
Ms. Kallas has reportedly advised EU leaders, including those known for pro-Russia leanings, against attending Putin’s Victory Day Ceremony. Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban, regarded as a close ally of Putin within the EU and who has previously challenged EU measures targeting Russia, has declared his intention not to attend.
Slovakia’s Position Uncertain
While Slovakia’s former Prime Minister Robert Fico previously indicated his willingness to attend, his current stance remains unclear. The evolving geopolitical landscape may influence his final decision.
Call for Solidarity with Ukraine
Ms. Kallas emphasized the importance of demonstrating solidarity with Ukraine, urging all EU member states and institutions to increase visits to Kyiv. She stressed the need to visibly express support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.