Serbian President Vucic Confirms No Sanctions on Russia Amid EU Pressure

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has firmly stated that Serbia will not impose sanctions on Russia amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing that the country's policy is principled, independent, and supported by its citizens despite criticism from both Western and Russian media. He rejected statements by Minister for European Integration Nemanja Starovic, who had suggested Serbia might consider sanctions in exchange for EU membership prospects, calling these remarks careless and inconsistent with Serbia's sovereign policy. Vucic stressed that Serbia seeks to maintain good relations with both Russia and the European Union while refusing to be drawn into geopolitical pressures or political games by major powers. Serbia continues negotiations with Russia on natural gas supplies and has not signed declarations condemning Russia's invasion, underscoring its refusal to sever ties with Moscow. This stance has placed Serbia among the few European countries openly defying EU calls for sanctions against Russia, with Vucic attending Victory Day celebrations in Moscow and reaffirming long-term energy cooperation. Overall, Serbia prioritizes its national interests and sovereignty over aligning with EU sanctions policies, awaiting clearer guarantees regarding EU membership before any policy shift.