During her visit to Montenegro, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the country could become a member of the European Union as early as 2028. Her remarks came amid discussions on Montenegro’s progress in accession talks and the growing importance of the Western Balkans in the EU’s enlargement policy.
“You are determined to complete all negotiation chapters next year. We support your ambition for 2028 — we like ambition,” von der Leyen said, emphasizing Brussels’ commitment to accelerating the region’s European integration.
Montenegro, which began accession negotiations in 2012, is currently considered the most advanced candidate among the Western Balkan countries. In recent months, the government in Podgorica has undertaken a series of reforms aimed at aligning its legal and institutional framework with EU standards — particularly in the areas of rule of law, anti-corruption measures, and judicial independence.
Von der Leyen’s statement reflects the EU’s renewed focus on enlargement toward the east and southeast of the continent. In the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions — especially following Russia’s aggression against Ukraine — Brussels increasingly views the integration of the Western Balkans as a matter of strategic security.
Although Montenegro’s EU membership by 2028 still depends on meeting numerous criteria and completing key reforms, the European Commission President’s optimistic tone was warmly welcomed in Podgorica. Observers note that setting a clear time horizon could serve as a powerful political incentive for the country to maintain its reform momentum.
