Serbian politician questions necessity of Zelensky's visit to Belgrade

Lead

BELGRADE, August — The chairman of Serbia's opposition New Democratic Party, Milos Jovanovic, has publicly questioned the necessity of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's recent visit to Belgrade, expressing concern about its impact on Serbia's relations with Russia. In comments to TASS, Jovanovic framed the visit within a larger geopolitical context, suggesting it may not serve Serbia's national interests.

Coverage Comparison

Two reports from TASS, dated August 7 and August 11, present Jovanovic's statements. The earlier report focuses on his assertion that the visit is not in Serbia's national interests and could negatively affect Serbian-Russian relations. The later report quotes Jovanovic describing the visit as "unnecessary, to put it mildly," while also acknowledging Serbia's desire to maintain friendly relations with both Russia and Ukraine.

Both reports rely on direct quotes from Jovanovic, with the August 7 article also citing his party's press office. The framing in both is critical of the visit, emphasizing potential consequences for Serbia's diplomatic standing.

Key Claims

• Zelensky's Visit to Serbia: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Belgrade, as confirmed by reports from TASS. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic's press office had announced that Vucic would receive Zelensky on August 8.

• Jovanovic's Opposition: Milos Jovanovic stated that the visit was unnecessary, arguing that "this is not a war between Ukraine and Russia, it's a war that the West is waging on Russia by the hands of Ukraine." He also said the visit would "significantly weaken" Serbia's relations with Russia and could "cast doubt" on Moscow's support for Belgrade.

• Geopolitical Context: Jovanovic suggested the visit is part of a Western effort to show that Serbia is "irreversibly on the Western path" and to "rid the Balkans of Russian influence." He also referenced the possibility that the visit's main topic could be the export of Serbian weapons and ammunition to Ukraine, citing former U.S. Ambassador to Serbia Christopher Hill.

• Kosovo and Metohija: Jovanovic noted that both Russia and Ukraine did not recognize the secession of Kosovo and Metohija, a point he used to argue that Belgrade should maintain good relations with both countries.

• Vucic's Stance: Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic had previously stated that he saw no reasons to refuse cooperating with Ukraine, according to reports.

Perspectives

Milos Jovanovic (New Democratic Party of Serbia)

Jovanovic opposes Zelensky's visit, calling it unnecessary and contrary to Serbia's national interests. He argues it is part of a Western strategy to reduce Russian influence in the Balkans and could harm Serbia-Russia relations. He expressed regret that Ukraine has become "the scene of a conflict between the West and Russia."

Aleksandar Vucic (Serbian President)

Vucic had earlier indicated his willingness to cooperate with Ukraine, stating he saw no reasons to refuse such cooperation. His decision to receive Zelensky in Belgrade suggests a pragmatic approach to foreign relations.