Mickoski: Europe is a 'restless volcano', North Macedonia must show wisdom and unity

Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski used the ceremonial academy marking 23 October — the Day of the Macedonian Revolutionary Struggle — to warn of growing instability across Europe and the Balkans and to urge citizens and politicians to remain calm, united and prudent.

Regional tensions and the risk of spillover

Addressing recent unrest in Europe and the region, Mickoski said the continent is entering a period of heightened political and security challenges and that some neighbouring problems could be imported into North Macedonia.

"The Balkans are no longer the only powder keg. In fact, Europe is becoming a restless volcano. Reason is being heard less and less, and every day we see protests and violence of various kinds present in Europe and among our neighbours," Mickoski said, warning against falling for provocations.

He added that regional services remain active and that attempts could be made to drag North Macedonia into external disputes. "And in the Balkans the services never stop working. And I would not be surprised if there are those who will try to involve us in their problems or transfer part of their atmosphere into our everyday life," the prime minister said.

Mickoski also singled out domestic opponents as possible actors in such scenarios: "And as for domestic actors in such a game, that is very easy. There are several from the opposition who, for money and false promises of office, know how to create wonders," he said.

He appealed to citizens not to succumb to artificially imposed divisions and pledged that his government will not respond impulsively to pressure. "We should not always react at first, and I am not running a 100-metre race, but a marathon, and in that marathon we will win as many times before," Mickoski said.

On historical memory, Mickoski insisted it cannot be erased. "Our memory does not depend on their approval. No pressure can erase Goce Delchev from the heart of the Macedonian people. Because Goce is woven into our struggle, into our freedom, into our existence," he said.

He also addressed the EU accession path, saying he understands citizens' fatigue with long negotiations but argued North Macedonia must stay the course and secure membership to be part of key decision-making processes. Mickoski said relations with Bulgaria changed after Sofia joined the EU and reiterated the need for wisdom and unity in pursuing EU integration.

Photo: press material from the event