Macron Seals Deal for French Rafale Jets in Serbia, Amidst Talk of EU Membership and Kosovo Songs

French President Emmanuel Macron concluded a two-day visit to Serbia with the signing of a contract for the purchase of 12 Rafale fighter jets. Macron expressed support for Serbia’s path towards EU membership, while also indicating French interest in the country’s rare earth mineral mining project. He reiterated that normalizing relations between Serbia and Kosovo is crucial for Serbia’s EU accession, emphasizing the need for courageous decisions from both sides. A highlight of the visit was a reception hosted by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, where he reportedly sang Kosovo songs, a gesture that was met with surprise and curiosity by the French delegation. This event, alongside the Rafale deal, has fueled speculation about Serbia’s complex geopolitical maneuvering and its future relationship with the EU and Russia.