The European Commission has presented a roadmap indicating that Montenegro could conclude its EU accession negotiations by December this year, potentially becoming the 28th member state by 2028. This would mark the first new EU membership in fifteen years. Albania, Moldova, and Ukraine are identified as other leading candidates with specific timelines provided for their progress. While the Commission describes Albania’s goal to finish negotiations next year as ambitious but achievable, it noted recent slowdowns in reform efforts and urged stronger dialogue with civil society amidst ongoing protests. Specific concerns were raised regarding environmental reforms in Albania, particularly concerning construction projects in protected areas that sparked the 'Flamingo Movement' and subsequent violent clashes with police.
Bias read (Center): The article relies exclusively on official EU Commission roadmaps and quotes, presenting a balanced overview of candidate countries' progress without injecting subjective judgment or partisan framing.





