Serbia resists EU pressure over Russia ties

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić 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, Vučić dismissed what he called “thousands of doubts” from EU member states about Serbia’s relationships with other nations.

Serbia remains one of the few European countries that has not imposed Western sanctions on Russia, despite its ambition to join the EU. Vučić defended his diplomatic approach, saying he will not justify his conversations with other leaders and stressing the importance of dialogue: “I believe that everybody should talk to each other.” He made it clear that he has no intention of changing his stance on Russia, even under Western pressure to antagonize Moscow.

Regarding the Ukraine conflict, Vučić positioned himself as a minor player, stating he does not intend to interfere. He also defended his recent trip to Russia, citing economic necessities such as discussions on gas supplies and the situation of the Serbian oil company NIS, which is majority‑owned by Russian energy giant Gazprom and has been sanctioned by the United States. The U.S. recently activated restrictions targeting NIS, forcing Belgrade to either sell Gazprom’s stake in the firm or assume control through nationalisation.

Brussels and Washington have repeatedly urged Belgrade to align its foreign policy with the EU, particularly by cutting ties with Moscow. Serbia has resisted these efforts, while Moscow praises its independent stance and supports Serbia’s sovereign right to choose its own partners. Russian officials describe the relationship as a “historic friendship and strategic partnership.”

Serbia’s refusal to impose sanctions on Russia has created tensions with the EU and the U.S., but Vučić maintains 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 ties with the EU, Russia, and other partners.