Serbia Stands Firm with Kremlin: PM Macut Rules Out Sanctions on Russia

Serbian Prime Minister Duro Macut has categorically ruled out aligning with Western sanctions against Russia, reaffirming Belgrade’s longstanding neutral stance despite growing pressure from the EU and NATO-aligned states.

In his first interview with a foreign outlet since taking office, Macut told Russia’s state-run TASS agency, “As long as I am prime minister, the Serbian government will not join the sanctions against Russia.”

Image Source: Dragan Milic on X

This statement marks a clear continuation of Serbia’s independent foreign policy, even as the country pursues closer ties with the European Union. 

It also echoes the position of former Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vulin, who previously warned that imposing sanctions on Moscow could cost the Serbian economy upwards of €15 billion and seriously endanger national stability.

Serbia, a key player in the Western Balkans, has maintained economic and political ties with Russia, especially in the energy sector. 

While Belgrade has condemned the violation of Ukraine's territorial integrity at international forums, it has consistently refused to adopt punitive measures against the Kremlin.

Macut’s reaffirmation comes at a delicate moment in regional politics, as Brussels steps up pressure on EU candidate countries to align their foreign policy with the bloc. 

Serbia has repeatedly said it values strategic autonomy and historical ties with both Russia and the West.

Analysts say Macut’s message is aimed at domestic audiences as well as foreign partners and shows Serbia’s unwillingness to compromise its economic interests or diplomatic flexibility amid geopolitical turbulence.