European People's Party initiates proceedings against Serbian Progressive Party

The European People's Party (EPP) has initiated internal proceedings against the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), the ruling party of Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić. Bulgarian MEP Andrej Kovačev, head of the EPP's Bulgarian delegation, stated that the group has waited too long to act, noting that Vučić has played “both sides” for an extended period.

EPP President Manfred Weber has also expressed criticism regarding the Belgrade regime, specifically citing the glorification of Ratko Mladić as being contrary to European values. While some members of the German CDU continue to support the SNS, internal pressure within the EPP to distance itself from the party is growing.

Analysts suggest the SNS could face a fate similar to Hungary's Fidesz, which had its membership suspended by the EPP in 2019 before eventually leaving the party family. Some experts speculate that the SNS might choose to withdraw from the EPP voluntarily to avoid formal expulsion.