Against the backdrop of the ongoing EU – Western Balkans summit in Montenegro, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and the ruling party continue their harsh rhetoric toward their neighbors.
Serbia has officially accused Kosovo, Albania, and Croatia of forming a military “anti-Serb alliance.” According to Vučić, the military cooperation between the three countries is directed straight against Belgrade and may pose a threat to Serbia’s territorial integrity. The President stated that Belgrade is closely monitoring the situation and is “preparing for a possible attack.”
Earlier, Vučić repeatedly emphasized that in response to the strengthening of defense cooperation between Zagreb, Tirana, and Pristina, Serbia is bolstering its own army. In March 2026, he confirmed the acquisition of Chinese supersonic (hypersonic in some characteristics) CM-400AKG cruise missiles, making Serbia the first European country to obtain such weapons. Vučić described the missiles as “expensive but effective” and stated that their numbers would continue to grow.
On the eve of the summit in Tivat, Montenegrin authorities blocked the entry of 87 Serbian citizens. The group of men arrived on a charter flight from Belgrade to Tivat Airport. After security checks, many of them were sent back to Serbia on the same flight.
According to Montenegrin police and the National Security Agency, the decision was made for reasons of state security. Many of those blocked have criminal records and ties to the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS). Vučić called them “just boys who wanted to say hello,” while Podgorica explained the actions as necessary to ensure the smooth conduct of the summit.
Tensions in the region persist amid the strengthening of defense cooperation between Croatia, Albania, and Kosovo (a declaration was signed in March 2025). Serbia, which does not recognize Kosovo’s independence, sees this as a direct threat.
The summit in Tivat is taking place under heightened security measures. EU and Western Balkans leaders are discussing the acceleration of European integration for the region.