European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has condemned the large crowd that attended the funeral of convicted war criminal Ratko Mladic, warning that the display could undermine Serbia’s efforts to join the European Union.
Von der Leyen described images from Mladic’s funeral in Belgrade as “shocking”, expressing concern over the turnout and the presence of senior Serbian officials.
She said such displays raised questions about Serbia’s commitment to confronting its wartime past and upholding the democratic values expected of countries seeking EU membership.
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“The scenes from Ratko Mladić’s funeral in Belgrade yesterday were shocking,” von der Leyen said in a post on X.
She added that the reported official support for Mladic and the attendance of senior Serbian officials were “deeply regrettable”.
Von der Leyen said Serbia’s failure to fully confront its wartime past could conflict with its efforts to advance towards EU membership.
Her comments come as Serbia continues its long-running bid to join the European Union, with progress dependent on reforms and its commitment to European democratic standards.
European Council President Antonio Costa also expressed concern over the funeral, highlighting the significance of the event for Serbia’s relationship with the European Union.