Serbia

Serbia is currently in the news due to the recent death and commemoration of convicted war criminal Ratko Mladic. His body was returned to Serbia with military honors, leading to a commemoration in Belgrade attended by former military staff and officials. This event has drawn international attention, with an EU official canceling a trip to Serbia over what was described as the 'glorification' of Mladic, deeming it incompatible with European values. Additionally, Serbia's ruling party has proposed that President Aleksandar Vucic switch to the role of prime minister following an upcoming early parliamentary election. The country's football club, Red Star Belgrade, was also fined by UEFA for fan chants honoring Mladic. These events highlight ongoing sensitivities surrounding historical figures and Serbia's political landscape and its relationship with the European Union.