Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has pushed back against European Union pressure to sever ties with Russia and China, emphasizing his country’s historic and strategic links with Moscow. At an EU enlargement summit in Brussels, Vucic rejected what he termed “thousands of doubts” from EU member states regarding Serbia’s relationships with other nations. Serbia remains one of the few European countries that has not imposed Western sanctions on Russia, despite seeking EU membership.

Vucic defended his approach to international diplomacy, stating that he will not justify his conversations with other leaders. He emphasized the importance of dialogue, saying, “I believe that everybody should talk to each other.” The Serbian leader also made it clear that he has no intention of changing his stance on Russia, despite Western pressure to antagonize Moscow.

Regarding the Ukraine conflict, Vucic positioned himself as a minor player, stating that he does not intend to interfere in the situation. He also defended his recent trip to Russia, citing economic necessities such as discussions on gas supplies and the plight of the Serbian oil company NIS. NIS is majority-owned by Russian energy giant Gazprom and has been sanctioned by the US.

The US recently activated restrictions targeting NIS, pushing Belgrade to either secure a sale of Gazprom’s stake in the firm or assume control via nationalization. Brussels and Washington have repeatedly urged Belgrade to align its foreign policy with the EU, particularly by severing its relationship with Moscow. However, Serbia has resisted these efforts, with Moscow praising its independent stance and supporting its sovereign right to choose its own partners.

The relationship between Serbia and Russia is rooted in historic and strategic ties, with Russian officials describing it as a “historic friendship and strategic partnership.” Serbia’s refusal to impose sanctions on Russia has led to tensions with the EU and the US, but Vucic has maintained that his country will not compromise its relationships with other nations. The situation highlights the complexities of Serbia’s position, as it seeks to balance its relationships with the EU, Russia, and other nations.