The formation of a military alliance between Kosovo, Albania, and Croatia has sparked strong reactions in Serbia, where Serbian officials have once again described it as a bloc directed against their interests. In response, Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Đurić has warned of the possibility of creating a bloc with Hungary, while Serbian media have also mentioned Slovakia. Security experts say the creation of such a new bloc, as announced by Serbia, could impact the geopolitical balance in the region.
Serbian officials have continued to dramatize the creation of the military alliance between Kosovo, Albania, and Croatia, calling it a bloc directed against Serbia. In response, Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Đurić mentioned the possibility of creating a similar alliance with Hungary, while Serbian media have not ruled out Slovakia, considering these states to be Serbia’s allies.
“I believe that anything that strengthens Serbia’s capacity to act independently on the international stage, to protect its national interests, and to increase the security level of all citizens, is positive. What has been achieved in relations with Hungary in the last 12 years, since the signing of the historic National Reconciliation Agreement, is part of the legacy for future generations,” said Đurić.
In addition to his stance against Kosovo, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is also known for his pro-Russian views, even though Hungary is a NATO and EU member state.
Serbia’s “Blic” newspaper also quoted diplomat Zoran Milivojević, who stated that such an initiative should also be considered with Slovakia.
Security expert Bejtush Gashi views such warnings from Serbia as part of a broader range of mechanisms to preserve and deepen its influence in the Western Balkans.
“Serbia has always sought to maintain a neutral military position and strengthen relations with traditional powers like Russia, while also being interested in developing ties with other states, including Hungary and Slovakia. This move could be seen as an opportunity for Serbia to deepen its economic and political cooperation in the region and ensure alternative ways to protect its interests, especially at a time when the influence of the European Union and the United States is becoming increasingly visible in the Balkans,” said Gashi.
He added that an agreement between Serbia and states like Hungary and Slovakia could affect the region’s geopolitical balance.
“This could create ‘rivalry’ at several levels, counteracting the Western Balkans’ efforts to strengthen ties with the European Union, while countries like Hungary and Slovakia have an interest in maintaining a balance between Western policies and those favoring closer ties with the East, including Russia. Serbia, by maintaining such military neutrality and deepening ties with these states, could try to create a sphere of influence that favors its national interests and hinders the advancement of Western forces in the region,” said Gashi.
The statement leaves the possibility open for other countries to join Croatia, Albania, and Kosovo, with Bulgaria already reported to have received an invitation.
