"The enlargement of the European Union is an important issue, and Russian intervention can pose a threat to it." These are the words of the President of the European Council, Charles Michel shortly after President Volodymyr Zelensky raised the alarm that there is information that Russia is preparing a war in the Balkans to divert attention from the conflict in Ukraine.
During a meeting with Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic in Croatia, the senior European official emphasized that the expansion would make the bloc of 27 members more secure and would guarantee peace for the countries of the Western Balkans.
Referring to Zelensky's warning, Michel said that they cannot rule out that Russia is being tempted to instigate a new conflict.
"Enlargement and the prospect of enlargement is very important because we know that the EU will be safer and more prosperous. We cannot rule out temptations from Russia or even others to interfere or influence. And this is the reason why we are absolutely convinced that progress on the EU path is extremely important for more stability and to make sure that this region will be peaceful", said Michel.
The President of the European Council described the new summit in December as essential for discussions not only on the issue of enlargement, but also the financial support of the candidate countries. Croatian Prime Minister Plenkovic also said that his country strongly supports the path of its neighbors in the Balkans towards the EU.
"Only the firm anchoring of our neighbors in the European processes will guarantee peace, security, stability and better multilateral relations. The last thing we need is another war in South-Eastern Europe", stressed Michel. (A2 Televizion)
A2 CNN Livestream
MUND TE LEXONI GJITHASHTU
