EU Enlargement Exposed: Balkan Backsliding and Troubling Trends Threaten Stability

The European Union's ambitious plan to expand its borders by admitting new member states continues to face significant hurdles that call into question the future of Europe’s stability—and by extension, America’s strategic interests abroad. Are Montenegro and Albania Truly Ready to Join the EU? In its latest “annual enlargement package,” the European Commission praised Montenegro and Albania as frontrunners for accession. Montenegro reportedly closed four negotiation chapters last year, positioning itself to potentially conclude talks by 2026. Albania also made “significant progress,” especially in justice reforms and anti-corruption efforts. Such developments are vital steps toward aligning these countries with the...