Analyst on Paris military parade: Croatia will be there as NATO member, Serbia on a different line

Serbia and Croatia are set to participate in the upcoming military parade in Paris commemorating Bastille Day, France's national holiday. While both nations will be present, their representation and the context of their participation differ significantly, according to Croatian military analyst Marinko Ogorec.

Serbia's presence is framed by its long-standing historical partnership with France, dating back to World War I. Ogorec explained that Serbia is not a member of the informal "Coalition of the Willing" but has been invited based on its historical alliance with France. "I assume that on that basis, it was invited as one of France's allies. I think that's it," he told N1 Zagreb.

Croatia, on the other hand, will be represented by a unit of military police. This decision stems from a directive by Croatian President Zoran Milanović, who, in his capacity as supreme commander, did not permit military representatives to appear alongside Prime Minister Andrej Plenković in Paris. Ogorec emphasized that Croatia's participation, particularly through its military police, is essential given its membership in NATO.

The differing approaches highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics at play. While Croatia's participation aligns with its NATO commitments, Serbia's presence underscores its independent foreign policy and historical ties with France, separate from any Western military alliances. The parade serves as a platform for France to showcase its military strength and acknowledge its international partnerships.

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I assume that on that basis, it was invited as one of France's allies. I think that's it.