URGENT UPDATE: Italy’s Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, has declared that Balkan nations must be a top priority for membership in the European Union (EU), overshadowing support for Ukraine. In a striking statement made to Corriere della Sera, Tajani emphasized the EU’s “certain obligations” to the Balkans, which include Montenegro, Serbia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and North Macedonia.
This announcement comes amid ongoing discussions regarding Ukraine’s EU aspirations, which Tajani supports but insists must not eclipse Balkan nations’ needs. “We support Ukraine’s access to the EU, but the Balkans come first,” he stated. This push for prioritization raises significant questions about the EU’s future expansion strategy and the potential implications for these countries.
Earlier today, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed skepticism about Ukraine’s chances of joining the EU, outright rejecting the possibility of membership by 2027. This sentiment was echoed by officials from Hungary, Poland, and Austria, highlighting a growing divide in the EU regarding its enlargement policy.
Currently, Georgia and Moldova also hold official candidate status for EU membership, but Tajani’s remarks signal a potential shift in focus back to the Balkans, a region historically tied to EU expansion discussions. The urgency of this situation is underscored by the geopolitical tensions and the ongoing humanitarian crises stemming from the conflict in Ukraine.
As developments unfold, all eyes will be on the EU’s next steps regarding membership negotiations with these nations. Tajani’s declaration is poised to reignite debates about the EU’s commitments and priorities in the Balkans, a matter that could affect regional stability and international relations in the coming months.
Stay tuned for further updates on this critical issue as it develops.
