SDSM: Under Mickoski’s leadership, Macedonia went from leader to loser

SDSM says that North Macedonia has been left out of the roadmap the European Commission is preparing for four countries: Montenegro, Albania, Moldova and Ukraine. According to the party, the country remains blocked and, during Mickoski’s two and a half years in government, has gone from being a leader on the European path to being a loser.

The party describes this situation as a direct result of Mickoski’s policies.

“Instead of reforms, a policy of isolation, lies and empty promises is being pursued. Because of Mickoski, we are losing time, money and funding, while also losing young generations who are emigrating. Reforms are absent. Europe is demanding that obligations be fulfilled, an independent judiciary and a fight against corruption. Photographs in corridors do not open negotiating chapters, while party speeches cannot replace reforms. Attacks against the opposition and smear campaigns do not move the country forward. Citizens are paying the price, and it is a high one,” SDSM said.

According to SDSM, keeping Macedonia outside the European Union serves forces seeking a weak, divided region exposed to Moscow’s influence.

“They need Macedonia outside the Union: a refuge for Vučić, a place where the money of crime and corruption can circulate, and a buffer zone next to the EU. This is what Moscow needs. It is a safe haven for the VMRO organized crime group led by Mickoski. Mickoski is a player represented by Russia, and his satellites have the same mission. The Left is a Russian, anti-NATO and anti-American party. That is why all these forces have joined together,” the party said in its response.

SDSM stresses that Macedonia must not be turned into a buffer zone or a reserve for other people’s agendas.

“The country must move forward. A minister in the government, coffee-shop reformers, ZNAM 2.0 and intriguers are all serving Russian interests and the interests of Aramiya. Macedonia is nobody’s buffer zone and not a reserve for other people’s agendas. It is the homeland of citizens who deserve a European future. Whoever obstructs reforms also obstructs the European path. Those keeping the country blocked must be held accountable,” SDSM said.