Serbia and Ukraine pledge closer economic ties, eye free trade deal

Serbia and Ukraine have pledged to deepen economic ties, aiming to finalize a long-delayed free trade agreement by the end of 2026. During Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit to Belgrade, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic committed to assisting in the rebuilding of Ukrainian cities and providing aid, particularly for the energy and medical sectors. Serbia also reiterated its support for Ukraine's EU membership bid and territorial integrity, while maintaining its refusal to impose sanctions on Russia. Ukraine, in turn, has not recognized Kosovo's independence. The leaders discussed joint infrastructure projects and energy security, with Ukraine thanking Serbia for a €2 million pledge to its energy sector.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made his first official visit to Serbia on Friday. The visit was confirmed by Zelensky on his Telegram channel and announced by the office of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic. Zelensky stated that important talks are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, during which he will meet with President Vucic and Prime Minister Djuro Macut. Serbia is noted as one of the few European countries that has maintained friendly relations with Russia despite its invasion of Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to make his first official visit to Serbia on Saturday. Serbia, led by President Aleksandar Vucic, is one of the few European nations maintaining friendly relations with Russia despite its invasion of Ukraine. Vucic has refused to join international sanctions against Russia, citing historic ties and reliance on Russian energy supplies, which has impacted Serbia's EU membership bid. While Serbia has provided aid to Ukraine, Vucic aims to balance his country's traditional ties with Moscow against pressure to align with the EU. The visit is expected to cover cooperation and EU paths, with Vucic stating Serbia's stance on sanctions will not change. Analysts suggest both leaders may seek political gains from the meeting.