Zelenskyy and Vučić Agree on Cooperation Despite Belgrade's Moscow Ties

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a notable visit to Serbia, marking his first trip to the country during his presidency. The visit is particularly significant given Serbia's traditionally pro-Moscow alignment and its refusal to join EU sanctions against Russia, despite Moscow's ongoing war in Ukraine.

During the visit, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Zelenskyy discussed strengthening bilateral ties. While military cooperation was explicitly ruled out, both leaders signed a declaration of intent to boost collaboration in agriculture and food security. Zelenskyy also expressed gratitude for Serbia's humanitarian aid to Ukraine in the medical and energy sectors. A free trade agreement is also planned for finalization by year's end.

Vučić stated that Serbia supports Ukraine's territorial integrity, acknowledging Ukraine's similar support for Serbia's position regarding Kosovo. Neither Kyiv nor Belgrade recognizes Kosovo's 2008 independence, a stance that prevents Ukraine from recognizing Kosovo's separation, thus avoiding a precedent that Russia could use to justify its claims over Crimea and the Donbas region.

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We are grateful to Ukraine for supporting Serbia's territorial integrity.

This meeting follows previous encounters between Vučić and Zelenskyy at European summits. Notably, at a summit in Kyiv in mid-July, Vučić was the sole participant who refused to sign a joint declaration supporting Ukraine and increasing pressure on Russia.

Serbia maintains close relations with Russia and has not imposed sanctions. However, reports suggest the Balkan nation supplies weapons to Ukraine, though this is not officially acknowledged.

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We are grateful for Serbia's humanitarian aid for the medical and energy sectors in Ukraine.