Vucic braces for criticism at EPC summit over Moscow visit

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has said he expects strong criticism from participants at the upcoming European Political Community (EPC) summit in Tirana due to his recent trip to Moscow.

Vucic travelled to Russia on May 9 to attend the celebration marking the 80th anniversary of the victory over fascism, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

Speaking to reporters at the summit, he acknowledged the political fallout of the visit but stressed his intent to shield Serbia from any negative consequences.

“It won't be easy for us because of the trip to Moscow. I now expect unequivocal attacks,” Vucic said. “I will try to take everything on board so that Serbia does not pay any price for this. It is a difficult situation, but I am sure that we can do a lot of things before the end of the year to further advance on the European path.”

Vucic described the visit as part of efforts to preserve “traditional friendships” with Russia, citing historical, cultural, and religious ties between the two nations. Despite this, he reiterated that Serbia remains committed to joining the European Union.

“Serbia sees itself now and in the future as on the EU path and as a member of the European Union,” Vucic said. He also pledged that Serbia will soon adopt key media and anti-corruption legislation required to advance in the EU accession process.

Serbia, which is heavily dependent on Russian energy supplies, has so far refused to impose sanctions on Russia over its war in Ukraine and has not aligned itself with most EU condemnations of it. However, Belgrade did support a United Nations resolution criticising the Russian attack.

By Sabina Mammadli