Zelensky Expected to Visit Serbia for First Time This Weekend

What Happened

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky may visit Serbia at the end of this week, with a local television channel, N1, citing diplomatic sources in Belgrade. This visit would be significant as it represents Zelensky's first trip to the country since he assumed office in 2019 and since the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

Key Details

While there has been no official confirmation of Zelensky's visit, diplomatic sources expect the signing of a mutual understanding memorandum regarding trade cooperation. Contacts between Zelensky and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic have primarily occurred during international political summits.

The most recent direct talks took place at the end of August 2023. During the 2023 summit in Athens, where key leaders discussed issues affecting Southeastern Europe, Vucic emphasized Serbia’s commitment to respecting Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

He characterized discussions with Zelensky as open, friendly, and constructive. Additionally, a declaration condemning the Russian aggression against Ukraine was signed at this summit, although Vucic notably did not sign the document, which called for sanctions against Russia, stating that he could not betray Russia.

Why It Matters

This visit could signal a shift in bilateral relations between Ukraine and Serbia, potentially leading to enhanced trade ties. Such interactions are crucial as Ukraine seeks to strengthen its alliances in the region amidst ongoing conflict with Russia.

Background

The Serbian President Vucic visited Ukraine only once since the beginning of the war, on June 11, 2025, during the same summit in Odessa aimed at promoting cooperation in Southeastern Europe. His presence and experiences from this visit were highlighted as important for understanding the war's impact firsthand.

While Vucic retains a complex position towards Russia, his recent engagements with Ukraine indicate a willingness to foster diplomatic dialogue and cooperation, despite past hesitations about taking a stronger public stance against Russian actions. The upcoming visit by Zelensky may not only deepen trade relations but also navigate Serbia's diplomatic position in the context of its historical ties with Russia.

The evolving dynamics between these nations are essential as they adapt to the changes in geopolitical alignments across Europe.