Pro-EU protests rage across Georgia for a fourth consecutive night, sparked by the government’s suspension of EU accession talks. Thousands clash with police, while the US suspends a strategic partnership and Russia warns of a ‘Ukrainian path’. The crisis highlights Georgia’s deepening political divide and its uncertain future.
Georgia is engulfed in widespread protests following a disputed election and the government’s suspension of EU accession talks. President Zourabichvili accuses the ruling party of creating a ‘quasi-Russian’ state, while the EU condemns the election as neither free nor fair. The clashes between protesters and police have led to numerous arrests and accusations of authoritarianism.
North Macedonia is holding presidential elections on Wednesday, with EU accession and the rule of law being key issues. Seven candidates are running for the largely ceremonial position, with no candidate expected to exceed the 50% threshold for outright victory. A second round of voting is likely to follow on May 8th. The latest poll shows opposition-backed Gordana Siljanovska Davkova leading incumbent President Stevo Pendarovski by 3.6 percentage points.
Brussels has presented Serbia with a stark choice: stop obstructing Kosovo’s entry into international organizations or face frozen EU accession prospects. Serbia’s path to the EU is now contingent upon its tacit approval of Kosovo’s membership in organizations such as the UN and Council of Europe. EU foreign ministers have amended Chapter 35 of Serbia’s accession negotiations to include the Ohrid agreement, which aims to normalize Serbia’s relationship with Kosovo. Kosovo’s recent diplomatic successes, including its approval as a candidate for Council of Europe membership, have exacerbated tensions with Serbia. Belgrade faces a difficult decision, balancing its aspirations for EU membership with its opposition to Kosovo’s recognition as an independent state.
