Leaders of Serbia and Ukraine pledge closer economic ties
The leaders said they want to finalize a free-trade agreement by year-end as Serbia backs Ukraine’s EU bid and expands humanitarian aid.
- On Friday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Belgrade, Serbia, for his first visit since taking office in 2019, focusing on economic cooperation and European Union membership ambitions.
- Serbia has maintained strong ties to Russia, refusing to join Western sanctions due to shared history and reliance on discounted Russian gas. President Aleksandar Vucic reaffirmed this position on Thursday, Aug. 6, stating it remains unchanged.
- A senior Ukrainian official stated the visit aims to "pull the Serbs away from Russia's side," while Belgrade has provided Kyiv with non-military assistance throughout the war despite drawing criticism from Moscow.
- Zelensky met with President Aleksandar Vucic and Serbian Prime Minister Macut, emphasizing that "Ukraine is always ready to work constructively, for mutual benefit, and on the basis of mutual respect."
- Both nations pursue European Union membership, though Serbia faces criticism over its democratic standards amid recent student-led protests and questions about political competition and alleged government corruption.
35 Articles
35 Articles
For the first time since the beginning of the war of aggression on Ukraine, Volodymyr Selenskyj has travelled to Serbia, traditionally allied with Russia. He plans, among other things, a free trade agreement with his counterpart Vucic.
Serbia maintains close relations with Russia. Nevertheless, Ukrainian President Selenskyj was in Belgrade - on his first official visit. In addition to a free trade agreement, it was also about Kosovo - and Russia's war of aggression. By C. Verenkotte.
Belgrade Balances Diplomacy: Serbia, Ukraine Seek Economic Cooperation Amid EU Aspirations
President Aleksandar Vucic affirmed Serbia’s support for Ukraine's independence while seeking enhanced economic ties with Ukraine. Despite this, Serbia continued to abstain from imposing sanctions on Russia, its traditional ally. Both nations aim to finalize a free trade agreement crucial for Serbia's EU membership ambitions.
Serbia will allocate 2 million euros to support Ukraine's energy sector. This was stated by Vladimir Zelensky after meeting with Serbian Prime Minister Juro Matsuto. 08 August 2026
Russian-friendly Serbia seeks closer ties with Ukraine
The talks between Zelenskyy and Vučić come as Russia's war against Ukraine once again intensifies. Despite Serbia’s historical ties to Russia, its bid to join the EU now seems to have taken the lead in considerations.
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