The EU brings serious remarks to Serbia: No membership with pro-Russian attitudes

The European Union has sent serious remarks to Serbia, but also to other states in the region that have not supported sanctions against Russia, saying future decisions in the enlargement process will be conditioned with bringing these states to sanctions against Russia and general statements on war in Ukraine.

Serbia is the only state of the region that has not adapted to EU positions has not imposed sanctions on Russia.

EU spokesman for foreign policy and security issues Peter Stano said during a media conference that “The EU, or more precisely member states, in the future during decisions dealing with relevant countries will take into account the level of adaptation with EU attitudes, statements and solidarity witnessed by these states to protect and promote fundamental EU values.

He said Albania, Montenegro and Northern Macedonia have so far adapted fully to EU positions in foreign policy.

“We expect and in this direction we are engaged with member states and partners in the region, to explain how important it is in these circumstances when world order based on law and regulations is jeopardised, to support the EU and to share the same attitude about sanctions”, Stano said.

Besides Serbia, Turkey as a candidate country has not supported sanctions against Russia. But membership negotiations with Turkey are also frozen, while those with Serbia are under way.

Serbia, according to diplomatic sources in Brussels, will now be under greater pressure to support sanctions against Russia. In Brussels, diplomatic sources say, there will be no more consensus for positions that go against strategic orientation for EU membership. Because of recent elections in Serbia, the EU was more cautious and reluctant to make more visible pressure on Belgrade. But the frustration among some member states is on the rise.