Demonstration Alert – U.S. Embassy Skopje, North Macedonia, January 23, 2026
Location: Border Crossings in North Macedonia with Bulgaria, Greece, Albania, Serbia, and Kosovo
Event: The Ministry of Interior has confirmed reports that North Macedonia transporters will block the nine border crossings to Bulgaria, Greece, Albania, and Kosovo at 12:00pm on Monday, January 26 in response to dissatisfaction with the new system for entering and exiting the Schengen zone. Blocks are also likely at the Serbian border. Trucks will reportedly be parked at the transport terminals at the borders, which will create a blockade of freight traffic to the European Union. There is no confirmed date or time for the blockades to end.
Actions to Take:
Avoid the areas of the demonstrations when publicized.
Exercise caution if unexpectedly in the vicinity of large gatherings or protests.
Monitor local media for updates.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Plan significant extra time to arrive at your intended destination.
Exercise caution when driving and check traffic conditions beforehand.
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Skopje
Samoilova 21, 1000 Skopje, North Macedonia
Phone: +389 2 310-2000
Email: SkopjeACS@state.gov
Website: https://mk.usembassy.gov/
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Enroll in STEP: https://step.state.gov/
