Alexander Vucic and Vladimir Zelensky.
Photo: president.gov.ua
During the third Ukraine-Southeast Europe summit, held on 9 October in the picturesque Croatian city of Dubrovnik, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic signed a final declaration that caused a significant response among Russian propaganda media. This meeting was an important event, as Serbia, traditionally considered “friendly” to Russia, officially condemned Moscow’s actions in Ukraine. This was reported by tsn.
The Declaration and its main points
The Declaration, which contains 18 key points, emphasises the recognition of the war in Ukraine as a “crime against the Ukrainian people” and a “violation of international law”. The document states that this aggression poses a serious threat to peace and stability not only in Southeast Europe, but also throughout the world. The participants of the summit expressed their “ongoing multifaceted support for Ukraine and its people” and reaffirmed their intention to support the results of the June Peace Summit held in Switzerland.
Changes to Vucic’s declaration
However, Vucic, commenting on his participation in the summit, noted that he managed to change several important aspects of the declaration. He “shot down” the clause that obliged countries to join the EU sanctions against Russia, stressing the need to support these measures without being obliged to do so. The Serbian president also insisted that the term “military assistance” was replaced with another to avoid direct references to military supplies.
Response to criticism and strategic direction
Vucic responded to the criticism that Serbia was “sitting on two chairs”. “We have one chair, the Serbian one. We will pursue our policy, you will pursue yours. We have no problems,” he stressed, demonstrating his desire to preserve the independence of Serbian foreign policy.
Interestingly, for the first time, Vucic did not wish Vladimir Putin a happy birthday, a symbolic gesture amid growing tensions between Serbia and Russia.
At the same time, according to the Financial Times, Serbia continues to secretly supply ammunition to Ukraine, despite the traditionally pro-Russian stance of many Serbs.
Thus, the signed declaration and Vucic’s rhetoric indicate a change in Serbia’s foreign policy course, which could significantly affect relations with Russia and regional security.
