Russian President Vladimir Putin has extended an invitation to Serbian President Aleksandar Vu?i? to visit Moscow in May 2025 for the 80th anniversary of the victory in World War II. The announcement, made by Russian state media, invites Vu?i? to join commemorations of the Soviet Union’s role in defeating Nazi Germany.
Putin’s invitation was framed as an effort to honor the “Great Patriotic War” victory and strengthen ties between Russia and Serbia. The Russian president emphasized that the event would enhance shared resolve in promoting peace and security globally.
The Serbian presidency has not confirmed the invitation, leaving the response unclear. When asked by Radio Free Europe, Serbia’s office declined to comment on whether Vu?i? would attend the event.
While Serbia is a candidate for European Union membership, it has notably refrained from supporting Western sanctions against Russia. Serbia’s long-standing ties with Moscow have raised tensions with the European Union, which has urged Serbia to avoid closer engagements with Russia, especially amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Vu?i?’s response to previous Russian invitations, including the BRICS summit in October, indicated his approach of balancing Serbia’s diplomatic relations, as the country simultaneously hosted top EU leaders during that period.
The 80th anniversary of the WWII victory presents a significant diplomatic moment for Vu?i?, who faces pressure from both Russia and the EU. As tensions between the West and Russia escalate, Serbia’s approach to balancing these alliances will continue to draw international attention.
