Ukraine's Zelenskyy makes first visit to Russia-friendly Serbia
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is making his first visit to Serbia. His host, President Aleksandar Vucic, hopes to score points with the EU, while Zelenskyy seeks more arms from a country that remains Russia-friendly.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made his first official state visit to Serbia on Friday. Serb President Aleksandar Vucic, in power for 14 years, sees the visit as a delicate balancing act ahead of crucial parliamentary elections. While Serbia is widely regarded as Europe's most pro-Russian country, recent signs suggest growing ties between Belgrade and Kyiv.
Zelenskyy's visit comes after a two-year delay, with Ukraine seeking Serbian munitions despite its pro-Russian stance. Pro-government media outlets in Serbia have openly backed Russia in the war. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of discussing Ukraine's and Serbia's paths toward Europe, as well as bilateral and energy cooperation.
Political analyst Djordje Vukadinovic noted that Zelenskyy welcomes anything that could serve as a "slap in the face" for Russian President Putin and aims to appear open to cooperation with the EU. Talks between Zelenskyy and Vucic are expected to be mutually beneficial, with Serbia's defense industry providing Ukraine with urgently needed artillery shells.
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