Montenegro Nears 2028 EU Entry as Bloc Drafts Accession Treaty
Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · Jun 5
Montenegro Nears 2028 EU Entry as Bloc Drafts Accession Treaty
3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · Jun 5
Summary
Ursula von der Leyen said Montenegro is "within reach" of EU membership by 2028 after the Tivat summit, and President Jakov Milatovic called the target realistic and strongly backed by partners.
The EU has already set up a working group to draft Montenegro's accession treaty, signaling that the front-runner among Western Balkan candidates is entering the final stretch of the process.
Von der Leyen framed Western Balkans enlargement as a geostrategic imperative, with the bloc seeking economic gains and stronger defense as it counters pressure from Russia and China and doubts about long-term U.S. backing.
Montenegro still must complete reforms on corruption and democratic institutions and align with EU rules across 35 policy chapters, while Brussels weighs faster procedures and post-entry safeguards after Hungary's rule-of-law clashes.
Can the EU reform its own rules fast enough to welcome new Balkan members without causing internal gridlock?
With Montenegro targeting 2028, is the EU's staged entry plan a real path or a permanent waiting room?
The Tivat Summit and Beyond: Accelerating EU Enlargement in the Western Balkans Amid Geopolitical Pressures
Overview
The EU-Western Balkans Summit in Tivat, Montenegro on June 5, 2026, hosted by President Jakov Milatovic, marked a key moment for regional integration. The summit's main goal was to reaffirm the EU's strong commitment to integrating Western Balkan nations and to give new energy to the enlargement process. EU leaders, including President Costa, clearly stated that the EU's dedication to the region is real, highlighting a strategic push to support these countries. This renewed engagement comes at a time of global challenges, showing the EU's intent to solidify its role and help the Western Balkans move closer to membership.