The President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vucic, announced on Wednesday, April 16, that he does not give up his plans to participate in the Victory Day organized on May 9 in Moscow, despite the explicit warnings from the European Union.
The President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vucic. Photo: EPA-EFE
“In the next period, we will be under pressure regarding the event in Moscow in which we announced our participation”, said Vucic in front of reporters. He also stated that for the first time Serbia will participate “in common” When organizing the parade and that one of the military units of the country will march in the Red Square, reports AP.
The decision of the Serbian president comes in the context in which European officials have warned that such a visit could be interpreted as a gesture of support for Vladimir Putin's regime and the war against Moscow against Ukraine. Brussels also stressed that participation in such events contravenes EU accession criteria and risks compromising the European course.
The head of European diplomacy, Kaja Kallas, reminded this week the firm position of the Union: “I said very clearly that we want no Member State to participate in the events of 9 May organized in Moscow.”
Although Vucic has repeatedly stated that he wants to integrate Serbia into the EU Community Bloc, he refused to align himself with the sanctions imposed on Russia, preferring to maintain close relations with the Kremlin, an attitude that led to the freezing of the accession negotiations.
Next to Vucic will also travel the Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, known for his pro-Russia positions. It has qualified right “Lacking in respect” Kallas' statements. Also, at the parade in Moscow, the Serbian Bosnian separatist, Milorad Dodik, is expected.
Serbia, who has long been trying to maintain good relationships with both Moscow and Brussels, submitted the request for EU accession in 2009, and in 2012 obtained the status of country candidate for EU accession.
