Serbia faces pivotal decision on West or East following EU warnings

In a statement made on May 22, 2025, the European Union's top foreign policy official, Josep Borrell, highlighted that Serbia, a candidate for EU membership, is confronted with a significant choice regarding its future direction. The remarks come soon after Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic attended Russia's Victory Day parade in Moscow, an action that sparked condemnation from EU officials and raised concerns about Serbia's commitment to EU values. Borrell emphasized that Serbia's aspirations for EU membership depend on its adherence to values such as democracy and rule of law. Vucic’s attendance at the May 9 parade, which celebrates the victory over Nazi Germany, is seen as a move to bolster ties with Russia, particularly in light of Serbia’s dependence on Russian energy. Despite EU calls for Serbia to align with Western sanctions against Russia following the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Serbian government has remained steadfast in its traditional alliances. Concurrently, Vucic is facing domestic pressure resulting from widespread anti-corruption protests that erupted after a tragic incident in which 16 individuals died at a train station. There is a growing demand for reforms in media freedom, anti-corruption measures, and electoral processes. Borrell also emphasized the importance of Serbia normalizing relations with Kosovo, which unilaterally declared independence in 2008—a move that has been a sticking point in Serbia's EU accession journey. Ongoing tensions between the two entities have hindered progress in EU-mediated discussions meant to foster dialogue over the complex issues stemming from their historical conflicts.