Jutarnji list: Total confusion in the European Commission over Serbia, divisions in the EU over Vučić also mentioned
The European Commission has not made any decision to freeze financial funds for Serbia, but is only assessing whether the existing conditions for the payment of money are met, which is common practice.
TL;DR
- The European Commission has not decided to freeze financial aid for Serbia; it is assessing whether payment conditions are met, which is standard practice.
- Earlier statements by Commissioner Marta Kos about suspended payments due to Serbia's lagging rule of law were misinterpreted as a freeze of 1.5 billion euros.
- The EU expects Serbia to fully implement the Venice Commission's opinion on judicial reforms, which is a condition for future payments.
- Serbia's recent judicial law, which led to the dismissal of judges, is seen by the EU as a violation of judicial independence.
- Confusion over the funding stems from different terminology used by officials and potential divisions within the EU regarding Serbia and President Vučić.
- Influential protectors for Vučić and his party exist within the EU, notably the European People's Party (EPP).
- Despite calls from the European Parliament for measures against Serbia over various issues, the European Commission has not implemented concrete actions.
- The current situation, where funds are not being disbursed, is similar to how payments are handled for other countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina that have not met conditions.