Milanović Triumphs Over Conservative Challenger

Zoran Milanović, Croatia’s opposition-backed President, has been re-elected by a commanding margin in the country’s 2025 presidential runoff. Milanović secured over 74% of the vote, decisively defeating his opponent Dragan Primorac, who garnered nearly 26%. The final tally, based on over 99% of the ballots counted, marks a significant win for Milanović, who is known for his combative political style and outspoken views, especially on issues like Croatia’s stance on Western military support for Ukraine.

This victory not only cements Milanović’s position as the most popular politician in Croatia but also signals strong discontent among voters with the current government under Prime Minister Andrej Plenković. Milanović, in his victory speech, emphasized that his win was not just personal support but a message to the government about the state of affairs in the country. He called on the government to take the citizens’ concerns seriously.

Political Landscape and the Road Ahead

Milanović’s victory sets the stage for continued political tension between the President and the ruling conservative Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ) led by PM Plenković. The two have had ongoing disputes, particularly over issues of corruption and foreign policy, with Milanović often accusing Plenković’s government of systemic corruption. Milanović himself has been criticized by his opponents for his perceived pro-Russian stance, especially after blocking the dispatch of Croatian officers to a NATO mission in Germany related to Ukraine.

Despite holding limited powers as President, many believe Milanović’s position is key in balancing political influence in Croatia, where the HDZ has dominated the government since the country’s independence in 1991. Milanović’s policies and actions, especially in relation to NATO and EU membership, will likely continue to challenge the current political order in Croatia.