President should not be a role model for local sheriffs like Keleminac

Croatian President Zoran Milanović clashed sharply with two journalists during a press conference, expressing displeasure with their questions and their manner of inquiry. This incident highlights a growing tension between political figures and the media in Croatia, with Milanović's confrontational style drawing criticism.

The exchange occurred as Milanović was discussing the potential deployment of Croatian soldiers for a parade in Paris. His sharp retorts and what were described as inappropriate statements have become a recurring theme in his interactions with the press. Prime Minister Plenković is also noted for frequently lecturing and making dismissive remarks to journalists.

These interactions occur against a backdrop of deteriorating press freedom in Croatia. The country fell 12 places in Reporters Without Borders' World Press Freedom Index last year, placing it in the "difficult situation" category for the first time. The Croatian Journalists' Association (HND) recorded 27 cases of attacks, threats, and pressure against journalists in the previous year, underscoring a worsening environment for media professionals.