Serbian lawmakers voted in a new government that reinstated two pro-Russia officials who are sanctioned by the U.S., highlighting Serbia’s close ties with Moscow despite its desire to join the EU. The government, led by Prime Minister Miloš Vučević, received backing in a 152-61 vote. The government’s composition includes former intelligence chief Aleksandar Vulin and Nenad Popović, both known for their support of Russia. The vote came after a heated two-day debate and tensions surrounding irregularities in the December elections. President Aleksandar Vučić, an authoritarian figure, has refused to join Western sanctions against Russia.
The new government’s stance on Russia was reiterated by Vučević, who emphasized that Belgrade does not intend to impose sanctions on Moscow and values its friendship with Russia. However, integration into the EU remains a strategic goal for Serbia. The government’s composition was seen as a political move aimed at pleasing both the West and Russia while appealing to voters at home. Security analyst Filip Ejdus described it as a “spin” that sends a message to the EU not to push Serbia too much on issues like democracy, rule of law, or Kosovo, while signaling to Moscow a willingness to strengthen ties with Russia. The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Vulin and Popović, accusing them of involvement in illegal activities.
Opposition lawmaker Radomir Lazovic criticized the inclusion of Vulin and Popović in the government, stating that they should not be part of the administration due to their harmful behavior. The U.S. sanctions against individuals and companies in the Balkans aim to counter attempts to undermine peace and stability in the region. The West is actively trying to integrate the Balkans into the EU amid concerns about Russia’s influence and the potential for unrest. Serbia’s democracy record has deteriorated, pushing the country further away from EU integration. Reports of election fraud in the December vote led to protests and clashes.
Despite Serbia’s proclaimed desire to join the EU, the country’s increasingly authoritarian leader, Vučić, has maintained close ties with Russia and refused to join Western sanctions in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The inclusion of pro-Russia officials in the government reflects Serbia’s balancing act between its alliance with Moscow and aspirations for EU membership. The move is seen as a strategic move to appease both the West and Russia while maintaining support domestically. The situation in the Balkans remains volatile, with lingering tensions from conflicts in the 1990s and concerns about Russian interference in the region.
The West’s efforts to counteract Russian influence in the Balkans are aimed at preserving stability and peace in the region. The EU’s interest in integrating the Balkans is driven by a desire to prevent Russia from causing unrest that could distract from the conflict in Ukraine. Serbia’s political landscape is complex, with Vučić’s authoritarian tendencies posing a challenge to EU integration. The balance between maintaining ties with Russia and pursuing closer relations with the EU remains a delicate issue for Serbia, with the government’s composition reflecting this ongoing struggle.
