Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has expressed concern over Russian influence in the country, while showing understanding for the stance of Belgrade towards Moscow.
Serbia remains Russia’s only firm ally in Europe, asides from Belarus with President Aleksander Vucic refusing to follow EU sanctions and parades with placards bearing his Russian counterpart’s face, common.
On the topic of the Ukraine war, he told Die Presse, “It is a potential threat to our region. Because in parts of the Balkans, Russia traditionally has had a strong influence. This is especially true for Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Republika Srpska in Bosnia and Herzegovina.”
He added it is important to keep this potential threat out of the Balkans but no more pressure should be put on Serbia to impose EU sanctions.
“Such sanctions are not possible because, without Russia, Serbia cannot survive. Moreover, the government and President Aleksandar Vucic would not politically survive the sanctions against Russia. Serbia has already taken a stand. We must not forget that Belgrade has already voted three times against Russia at the UN. This is a big surprise,” he added.
Meanwhile, Vucic told parliament that there would never be direct or indirect recognition of Kosovo, despite the “hysteria of the international community” due to the war in Ukraine.
Vucic said that he will not recognize Kosovo be it directly or indirectly, nor will he give up the legitimate fight for national interests and international law, reported Euronews Serbia.
“The danger is imminent, objective, and serious, and the representatives of the Serbian people can best testify to this. Serbia has not participated in the generation of the crisis in any way, shape or form. Despite everything, Serbia is ready for dialogue”, he emphasised.
