Serbia's leader in Ukraine for first time since Russia invasion
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (right) welcoming Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic to Odesa, for the Ukraine–Southeast Europe Summit, on June 11. PHOTO: REUTERS
Serbia's leader in Ukraine for first time since Russia invasion
ODESA, Ukraine - Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, who maintains strong ties with Moscow, made his first visit to Ukraine since Russia invaded in 2022 on June 11 and said he supported the country's 'territorial integrity'.
The Balkan nation with close historical links to Russia has maintained an official policy of neutrality throughout Moscow's three-year war in Ukraine and has denied arming either side.
But in recent days, Russia accused Serbian arms companies of 'trying to stab Russia in the back' by selling munitions to Ukraine.
Mr Vucic took part in a summit hosted by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Black Sea port of Odesa that gathered leaders from several countries across southeastern Europe.
'What I can say on behalf of my country is that Serbia will remain very firm and steadfast on observing the UN Charter, international public law, which includes protection of territorial integrity of UN-recognised countries as the most important principle,' Mr Vucic said.
Moscow occupies large swathes of eastern and southern Ukraine.
Just weeks earlier, Mr Vucic joined the 80th anniversary celebrations on Moscow's Red Square for Russia's victory over Nazi Germany.
Serbia and Ukraine have neither confirmed nor denied that Kyiv uses Serbian munitions.
Mr Vucic has attempted to walk a tightrope between traditional ally Russia and Serbia's desire to join the European Union, which is one of Ukraine's main backers in the war against invading Russian forces.
Both Serbia and Russia share a dislike and distrust of Nato, particularly since the defence organisation carried out bombardments on Serbian troops in 1999 during the Kosovo War.
Despite Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Serbia refuses to cut ties with Moscow, despite voting against its long-standing ally at the United Nations.
Belgrade is highly dependent on cheap gas it buys from Russia. AFP
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