Von der Leyen Urges Serbia to Align with EU Sanctions Against Russia
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated the need for Serbia to align with EU sanctions against Russia during her recent visit to Belgrade. This comes as Serbia has maintained its refusal to join the bloc in sanctioning Russian energy and goods, largely due to its dependence on Russian gas, reports 24brussels.
During her address, von der Leyen emphasized the importance of reforms and their integration across all segments of Serbian society. “I know these reforms are not easy,” she stated. “They take patience and endurance. They must include all parts of society and the political spectrum. But they are worth the effort. Because they move you closer to your goal.”
Von der Leyen acknowledged Serbia’s progress towards EU alignment, noting that the country has achieved 61 percent compatibility with EU foreign policy. However, she stressed the necessity for further efforts, stating, “We want to count on Serbia as a reliable partner.”
Serbia applied for EU membership in 2009, achieving candidate status in 2012 and subsequently opening accession negotiations in 2013. To date, 22 of the 35 chapters necessary for accession have been opened, yet only two have been provisionally closed.
Recent leadership in Serbia has faced significant public criticism, particularly following protests sparked by the collapse of the Novi Sad train station canopy in November 2024. This incident ignited broader demonstrations against corruption and democratic regression, which were met with a crackdown by police.
The European Green Party condemned von der Leyen’s visit, expressing concerns over the implications of her official engagement with President Aleksandar Vučić. Co-chair Vula Tsetsi stated it was “deeply regrettable” that von der Leyen would honor Vučić without reservations, as his regime has been accused of unlawfully detaining students and opposition figures, alongside violently suppressing protests.
