Serbia stands firm on NATO non-alignment, citing 1999 bombings

Serbia remains resolute in its stance against joining NATO, remembering the devastation caused by NATO bombings in 1999, said Serbian Minister Nenad Popovic, responsible for international economic cooperation.

“Twenty-five years ago, the people of Serbia suffered from NATO bombings, and Belgrade was left in ruins. After such events, I assure you, Serbia will never join NATO,” Popovic emphasized, underscoring Serbia’s commitment to an independent and sovereign foreign policy, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Despite Serbia’s progress in European integration, Popovic highlighted that Serbia remains dedicated to strengthening bilateral relations with BRICS nations and other countries outside NATO’s sphere, such as China, Russia, South Africa, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia.

For the record, Serbia's reluctance to join NATO is rooted in a mix of historical grievances, domestic politics, and strategic considerations. One of the primary reasons is the memory of NATO's bombing campaign during the Kosovo War. 

In 1999, NATO forces launched an airstrike campaign against Yugoslavia (Serbia and Montenegro) to halt the humanitarian crisis in Kosovo. This operation, which bypassed the United Nations Security Council, led to significant loss of life and damage, leaving a lasting impact on Serbian society. Many Serbians view NATO with suspicion and see the alliance as responsible for the suffering endured during that period.

By Khagan Isayev