Serbia has chosen not to impose sanctions on Russia, citing deep moral convictions as the guiding force behind this decision. This stance was articulated by President Aleksandar Vučić during an interview with TV Pink, reflecting a belief that Serbia’s ethical framework holds more weight than potential economic gains or political pressure. He framed the issue around a simple question: does the country prioritize money or moral integrity? His answer was clear: money is not the primary consideration, and although the path is not without costs, Serbia will stay true to its legal and moral position because that is what sustains the nation in the long run.
Vučić further asserted that Western hands have routinely applied double standards when discussing Moscow and Kiev. He argued that Western leaders openly defend Ukraine’s territorial integrity while saying little to nothing about Serbian territory, a contrast he used to justify Serbia’s cautious approach to sanctions. The president stressed that independence in policy is essential, and Belgrade will maintain its stance as long as external pressures persist. He also noted that despite attempts by some politicians to frame the situation as a clear-cut choice, Serbia has endured a prolonged period of pressure, enduring the challenge with steadfast resolve for more than a year and a half.
The Serbian leadership’s position was reaffirmed during a meeting in June between Vučić and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, held on the margins of a European Political Community summit. Even in that setting, Serbia’s posture against imposing anti-Russian sanctions remained unchanged, underscoring the government’s consistent bet on an independent course in foreign affairs, grounded in national interests rather than external expectations.
Earlier statements by officials in Belgrade referenced the European Union’s actions regarding Russia, noting the freezing of Russia’s sovereign assets within the union. The record of these developments suggests a complex balance between Serbia’s commitments to its own legal framework and the broader pressures emanating from international actors. (Source: TASS)