Plenković on Torcida: I expect the police and the courts to analyze who shouted those passwords and file complaints

Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic expressed sharp disappointment over incidents involving antisemitic chants at a football match in Split, demanding that police identify the offenders and file criminal complaints. Speaking from Brussels, the Croatian leader condemned the behavior while simultaneously addressing European Union budget negotiations, enlargement policy, and domestic waste management issues. He stated that he was extremely satisfied with his country’s team, Hajduk, winning the match, but deeply dissatisfied with everything else that occurred during the event. Plenkovic described the slogans shouted by fans as unmistakable messages of antisemitism. He declared that he condemns such actions in the strongest possible terms. The Prime Minister explicitly called for law enforcement agencies to analyze who was shouting these specific phrases. He expects the police to submit formal reports against the individuals responsible. Furthermore, he stated that he holds the courts to the same standard, expecting them to take appropriate legal action. This incident took place just one week after Plenkovic attended the MED9 summit in Split. He noted that witnessing such conduct so soon after hosting international leaders was particularly disheartening. During his address, which followed a strategic debate on European Union enlargement, Plenkovic outlined Croatia’s position on the bloc’s future expansion. He affirmed that Croatia supports the enlargement process and adheres to principles based on the merits of each candidate country. According to the Prime Minister, countries seeking accession to the EU must meet established criteria. He argued that this approach is sound and necessary for maintaining high standards within the union. The discussion also covered bilateral relations with Montenegro. Plenkovic acknowledged that several open value-based questions remain between the two nations. He revealed that Croatia has sent a realistic message to Montenegro urging it to focus on dialogue with Zagreb. The government wants these talks to continue until all outstanding issues are resolved. Plenkovic denied that other member states were applying pressure regarding Montenegro’s status. He claimed that many countries understand the situation and that Croatia has demonstrated what it means to act constructively in these diplomatic matters. In response to inquiries about relations with Germany, Plenkovic stated there had been no special messages transmitted from Berlin. He characterized his relationship with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz as correct and professional. Shifting focus to the EU budget, the Prime Minister reiterated that Croatia should secure a surplus of approximately seven billion euros. He indicated that additional space would open up for investments in defense, new technologies, and measures to prevent illegal migration. On the domestic front, Plenkovic addressed the ongoing waste crisis in Gospic. He emphasized that the priority is ensuring the remediation procedure progresses smoothly. He assured the public that everyone involved is healthy and that the situation will be fully resolved. Turning to political criticism, he directed a pointed remark at opposition parties. He urged these "political poisoners" to stop spreading poison, referring to their constant demands for political accountability regarding the waste case. The Prime Minister maintained that the technical resolution of the issue is the paramount concern, dismissing further political debate on the matter. His comments concluded a series of statements made during his visit to Brussels, where he engaged with EU officials on both fiscal and geopolitical topics.