Michael von der Schulenburg, a non-attached MEP, has asked the Council of the European Union whether it pressured Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić to cut ties with certain third countries during his visit to China. The question, filed on 3 June 2026, cites media reports that Vučić claimed the EU was exerting such pressure. The MEP wants to know what form this pressure took and which countries were involved.
The question does not specify numerical targets or deadlines but seeks clarification on the EU's diplomatic approach toward Serbia, a candidate country. It reflects concerns over EU influence on Serbia's foreign policy, particularly regarding its relations with China and Russia. The Council is expected to respond within approximately six weeks, and its answer will signal the EU's stance on balancing enlargement conditionality with member states' sovereignty.
The question puts the Council on the spot to clarify its diplomatic tactics, potentially affecting EU-Serbia relations. Serbian authorities may face domestic pressure if the EU's demands are seen as overreach. EU member states could be divided between those favoring a firm line on alignment with EU foreign policy and those prioritizing stability in the Western Balkans. Chinese interests are also indirectly affected, as Serbia's balancing act between Beijing and Brussels is a key aspect of its foreign policy.