EU Zeros In on the Balkans as Its Popularity Starts to Slide
- North Macedonia, Albania see Russian ally Serbia as partner
- EU summit in Tirana provides chance to revive expansion hopes
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For decades, joining the European Union was seen as the holy grail for the countries of the Western Balkans. But for most of them, that dream remains elusive, and they’re starting to look for alternatives.
People in Albania, Serbia, North Macedonia, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro have all become more vocal in their disillusionment this year as Europe grapples with the aftermath of Russia’s war in Ukraine and a cost-of-living crisis.