Europe is waiting for Belgrade's response, Merz with a clear message to Vučić

Europe is waiting for a clear answer from Belgrade regarding its strategic orientation, while the messages from Brussels and Berlin are becoming increasingly direct.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called on Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić not to try to maintain a balanced policy between Russia, China and the European Union.

According to Merz, such an approach is no longer sustainable in the current geopolitical context, where international tensions and political divisions have deepened. He stressed that countries aiming for membership in the European Union must be clear in their orientation and align themselves with EU policies and values.

"Europe cannot be just one option among many others. If Serbia sees its future in the European Union, then it must clearly demonstrate that it is ready to follow this path unequivocally," said Merz, underlining that the policy of "balancing" between the great powers is being viewed with less and less understanding in Brussels.

He added that the door to the European Union remains open for Serbia, but that this door is not automatic and requires clear political decisions, internal reforms and harmonization with the union's foreign policy.

On the other hand, after the summit where EU enlargement and relations with the Western Balkans were discussed, the Serbian president stated that he had held important and constructive talks with European leaders.

He stressed that Serbia remains committed to the European integration process, but at the same time will continue to protect its national interests and its foreign policy.

This debate reflects the growing pressure on Serbia to more clearly define its position in relation to the EU, especially at a time when the European Union is demanding more political unity and strategic security from candidate countries.