Russian media report on Zelenskyy's upcoming visit to Serbia

Russian media outlets Sputnjik and RT Balkan have prominently featured news of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's impending visit to Serbia, a country traditionally considered an ally of Moscow. The reports highlight the significance of this first visit by Zelenskyy to Belgrade since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić confirmed Zelenskyy's arrival, indicating that the agenda would cover three key topics: the European integration paths of both Ukraine and Serbia, and bilateral cooperation in the economic and energy sectors. Vučić also referenced Ukraine's stance on Kosovo, noting that Ukraine has not recognized its independence and has previously excluded Pristina from regional summits, suggesting a potential area of common ground.

Regarding Serbia's policy on sanctions against Russia, Vučić reiterated Serbia's established position, stating that the country has maintained its stance for four and a half years and will continue to do so. He acknowledged that Zelenskyy would likely express his views on sanctions but emphasized Serbia's independent policy.

The visit is being interpreted with strategic undertones by various actors. A high-ranking Ukrainian official, speaking anonymously to the French news agency AFP, described Zelenskyy's visit as a "slap in the face to the Russians" and a move to "separate Serbs from the Russian side." AFP noted Serbia's pro-Moscow leanings, while also mentioning Kosovo's participation in a UK-led military training operation for Ukrainian forces and Zelenskyy's past congratulations to Croatia on the anniversary of "Operation Storm." Russian media, meanwhile, has previously questioned the legitimacy of the Ukrainian government and called for new leadership for peace negotiations.