Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday, marking their first conversation in two and a half years. This dialogue comes at a critical time as Serbia navigates its position between European Union aspirations and its longstanding ties with Russia, particularly in light of the upcoming BRICS summit.
Key Takeaways
- Vucic thanked Putin for ensuring gas supplies for Serbia this winter.
- Serbia maintains a neutral stance, refusing to impose sanctions on Russia despite the Ukraine conflict.
- The conversation coincides with Vucic’s decision regarding attendance at the BRICS summit in Kazan.
Context of the Conversation
The phone call between Vucic and Putin was significant, occurring against the backdrop of Serbia’s candidacy for EU membership. Vucic expressed gratitude to Putin for assurances regarding gas supplies, a crucial issue as Serbia has historically relied on Russian energy.
Despite being a candidate for EU membership, Serbia has not imposed sanctions on Russia following its invasion of Ukraine. Vucic reiterated this position during their conversation, stating, "Serbia will not impose sanctions on the Russian Federation. That will not change."
The BRICS Summit Dilemma
The timing of this conversation is particularly relevant as Vucic faces a decision about attending the BRICS summit scheduled for October 22-24 in Kazan, Russia. He indicated that attending could signal a shift away from Serbia’s European path, while declining the invitation might be perceived as a betrayal of Russia. Vucic stated, "If I say I’m going to Kazan, it will signal the end of Serbia’s European path. If I say something else, they’ll claim I’ve betrayed the Russians."
Energy Dependence and Future Relations
Serbia’s energy dependence on Russia has been a longstanding issue, especially since the onset of the Ukraine conflict. While Serbia has sought alternative energy sources, it remains partially reliant on Russian gas. The recent assurances from Putin are seen as vital for Serbia’s energy security this winter.
The Kremlin’s statement following the call highlighted the leaders’ satisfaction with their bilateral relations, which are rooted in shared cultural and historical ties. The situation in Ukraine was also discussed, with Putin providing his perspective on the ongoing conflict.
Conclusion
This recent dialogue between Vucic and Putin underscores the delicate balance Serbia must maintain as it navigates its aspirations for EU membership while preserving its historical ties with Russia. The upcoming BRICS summit will be a pivotal moment for Vucic, potentially reshaping Serbia’s diplomatic landscape in the coming months.
Sources
- Preşedintele Serbiei l-a sunat pe Putin: ‘I-am mulţumit în mod special pentru că a dat asigurări că Rusia va furniza cantităţi suficiente de gaz’, Stiri pe surse.
- Preşedintele Serbiei, Aleksandar Vucic, a discutat cu Putin pentru prima dată în doi ani şi jumătate, G4Media.ro.
- Serbian president speaks to Russia’s Putin for first time in two and half years, Al Arabiya English.
- Serbian President Speaks To Putin For First Time In 2.5 Years: Presidency | Barron’s, Barron’s.
- Serbian president speaks to Putin for first time in 2.5 years: presidency, EWN: Eyewitness News.
English