
Key Highlights
- Historic Victory: Zoran Milanovic wins a second term as Croatian President with 74.6% of votes, defeating ruling HDZ party candidate Dragan Primorac.
- Critic of the European Union: Milanovic calls the EU “non-democratic” and accuses it of silencing dissent, vowing to push for reforms.
- Stance on Ukraine: Milanovic reiterates his opposition to Western military support for Ukraine, a stance that has sparked debates across Europe.
- Rising Tensions with PM: His re-election could escalate tensions with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, highlighting a growing political rift.
- Historical Achievement: Milanovic becomes Croatia’s third president to secure a second term, joining Franjo Tudman and Stjepan Mesic.
Zagreb: Croatia has re-elected Zoran Milanovic as its president in a historic landslide victory. Milanovic, 58, secured 74.6% of the votes in Sunday’s presidential election, defeating Dragan Primorac of the ruling HDZ party, who managed only 25.3%. The final results, based on 99% of votes counted, underline the overwhelming support for Milanovic’s leadership and policies.
A Bold Critique of the European Union
In his victory speech, Milanovic took a firm stance against the European Union, calling it “non-democratic in many ways.” He criticized its governance by unelected officials and accused the bloc of labeling dissenting opinions as enemies, which he described as “mental violence.”
“This is not the Europe I want to live and work in,” Milanovic stated, vowing to push for reforms within the EU. His remarks echo his longstanding critique of Western policies, particularly regarding military support for Ukraine in its conflict with Russia.
Comparisons to Global Leaders and Domestic Tensions
Known for his outspoken communication style, often likened to former U.S. President Donald Trump, Milanovic’s rhetoric has divided opinion but bolstered his popularity. His re-election is expected to heighten political tensions with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, with whom he has had a strained relationship during his first term.
Plenkovic, representing Croatia in the European Council, holds significant political power, creating a dynamic where the president’s ceremonial role intersects with political influence as the supreme military commander.
A Historical Milestone for Croatia
Milanovic’s victory marks a historic achievement, making him the third president in Croatia’s history to secure a second term. His predecessors, Franjo Tudman and Stjepan Mesic, similarly left an indelible mark on the country’s political landscape.
The Path Ahead: Promises of Reform and Political Challenges
While the Croatian presidency is largely ceremonial, Milanovic’s leadership style and critical views on European policies are expected to resonate domestically and internationally. His promise to “change the direction of the EU” sets the stage for potential shifts in Croatia’s foreign policy stance, particularly in its interactions with the European Union.
Milanovic’s re-election reflects a growing demand for change within Croatia, signaling a pivotal moment in the nation’s political journey. As the world watches, his leadership in the next term will be crucial in shaping Croatia’s role in Europe and beyond.