Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has issued a pointed warning to Montenegro’s Prime Minister Milojko Spajic regarding the potential impact of political decisions on regional stability. In response to Spajic’s comments about the Western Balkans’ simultaneous accession to the European Union, Vucic suggested that Montenegro could face significant consequences if it does not align with Serbia’s vision for the future.
Vucic’s Proposal and Spajic’s Response
During discussions held prior to meetings with top EU officials in Brussels, Vucic reiterated a longstanding proposal for the entire Western Balkans to join the EU at the same time. He characterized this approach as beneficial not only for the region but also for Europe as a whole. “If one country is left out, what will happen to that nation?” Vucic posed rhetorically, asserting that a collective entry would foster greater stability and cooperation.
Spajic quickly responded via social media, expressing agreement with the idea but emphasizing that Montenegro expects to join the EU by 2028. He urged Vucic to expedite the process for other candidates in the region. In turn, Vucic confirmed his proposal during a dinner with EU leaders, indicating he did not foresee any objections from regional counterparts. “I would prefer to hear Spajic’s reaction on more critical issues,” Vucic remarked, highlighting his desire for a constructive dialogue.
The Serbian president’s remarks were interpreted by some analysts as a veiled threat, suggesting that Montenegro’s political landscape could be destabilized if Vucic’s vision is not embraced. Davor Đenero, a Croatian analyst, noted that Vucic’s comment “First jump, then say ‘hop'” implied that the current Montenegrin administration could be at risk if it fails to comply with Serbia’s expectations.
Political Reactions and Regional Implications
The political exchanges have sparked reactions from various political figures in Montenegro. Miodrag Lakovic, a member of Spajic’s European Movement, stated that Serbia would have to negotiate with Montenegro as an EU member, emphasizing a cooperative approach. Meanwhile, Ivan Vujovic, leader of the Social Democratic Party, criticized Vucic’s intentions, suggesting that the Serbian president’s proposal was a tactic to undermine Montenegro’s EU aspirations.
Vujovic pointed out that Vucic’s call for simultaneous EU entry for the region was a distraction from his own government’s failings and a reflection of his fears regarding Montenegro’s EU accession. He warned that this could lead to increased pressures on Montenegro’s path to membership.
Đenero further elaborated on the precarious situation facing Montenegro, noting that the country has the opportunity to conclude its EU accession talks by the end of next year, contingent upon the commitment of the ruling coalition to pro-European policies. He cautioned that a shift in government after the upcoming parliamentary elections could jeopardize this progress.
As Vucic’s comments continue to reverberate across the region, the need for a steadfast and unified strategy from Montenegro’s leadership becomes increasingly critical. The potential for external influence, particularly from Serbia and Russia, poses a significant challenge to the nation’s EU ambitions.
According to Đenero, the only way for Montenegro to safeguard its European trajectory is to establish a “bulletproof” coalition that can withstand external pressures. He emphasized the importance of political will from both Spajic and Jakov Milatovic, the President of Montenegro, in navigating the complexities of regional politics.
As the landscape continues to evolve, the outcomes of these discussions will likely shape the future of not just Montenegro, but the entire Western Balkans as they seek to integrate into Europe.
