Europe and Serbia’s Fraught Dance: EU Aspirations Amidst Russian Ties

European Council President Antonio Costa visited Serbia to discuss concerns over Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic's recent visit to Russia. Costa received assurances of Serbia's commitment to the EU accession path despite its ties with Russia. Challenges include Serbia's reliance on Russian energy and internal calls for legal reforms.

European Council President Antonio Costa on Tuesday expressed concerns over Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic's recent participation in Russia's Victory Day ceremonies. Despite the trip, Costa emphasized Serbia's reassurance of continuing on its path toward European Union membership.

During his visit to Belgrade, Costa clarified that Serbia's historical ties with Russia cannot overshadow the present issue of condemning aggression, especially regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He stressed the importance of Serbia reaffirming its commitment to the EU and criticized Vucic's actions as undermining Serbia's EU path.

Vucic, balancing Serbia's traditional relations with Russia against ambitions to join the EU, faces international and domestic pressures. The country's reliance on Russian energy complicates matters further. Costa's tour will continue in the Balkans, assessing other nations' progress towards EU integration amidst the regional impact of the Ukraine war.

(With inputs from agencies.)