"I urge that you consider the growing trend of euroscepticism and mistrust toward European institutions amongst citizens of the Union, in which Croatia is no exception. The exceptionally poor turnout of Croatian citizens at extraordinary elections for the European Parliament in May is a clear indication of Croats' mistrust of the European Union. Keep in mind that the irrational decisions by the government will mostly be felt by Croatian citizens, who by no means have deserved punishment, which will only deepen that mistrust", Tomasic says in a written question submitted to the European Commission in response to announcements of the introduction of sanctions due to the breach of the European Arrest Warrant.

"Let Croatian citizens punish this government for its irresponsibility in the only appropriate manner - at democratic elections. Until then, I urge that you work together with us, members of the European Parliament, on building Croatian citizens' trust in European institutions, which is particularly important in this election year", says Tomasic.

Even if the proposed sanctions involve only funds for accession to the Schengen region, that could condemn Croatia in the long term to remain out of that zone, which would cause huge damage not just to Croatia but the European Union too, she says.