Serbian President Vucic speaks on war or peace amid Ukraine crisis

If West gets into full conflict with Russia, nobody would gain anything, says Aleksandar Vucic

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic outlined two stark scenarios the world might face amid ongoing tensions: the potential for a third world war or a long-term cease-fire in Ukraine. Speaking alongside Markus Soder, the President of the German state of Bavaria, Vucic highlighted critical choices confronting the international community.

“One scenario is whether the West will go in the direction of a full conflict with Russia, since it is not entirely easy to stop the Russian army on the ground,” Vucic told reporters during a news conference.

He contrasted this with a more hopeful possibility, suggesting that “with the help of the United States of America and China, some kind of long-term truce, if not permanent peace, could be established, which would mean a huge relief for the world.”

Vucic cautioned against escalating conflict, noting that no party would stand to gain from such a development. His remarks come at a time of heightened global tension, with many looking to diplomatic channels to avert further escalation.

In the context of European integration, Soder expressed strong support for Serbia’s bid to join the European Union, emphasizing the mutual benefits of such a move. “We are strongly advocating for Serbia to join the European Union. It would be a great shame for Europe, but I think also for Serbia, if you didn’t go that way,” Soder remarked. He highlighted Serbia’s significance in the Balkans and its potential as a strong partner within the European community.

Further strengthening bilateral ties, Soder announced the opening of a Bavarian representative office in Belgrade. This office aims to foster economic, scientific, and technical cooperation between Serbia and Bavaria. Vucic welcomed this development, noting the importance of cooperation with Bavaria, where Bavarian companies provide employment for 25,000 workers in Serbia.

In a gesture underscoring the close relationship between Serbia and Bavaria, Vucic bestowed upon Soder the Serbian State Order, the country’s highest award. This honor reflects the deepening ties and mutual respect between the two regions, against the backdrop of broader European and global challenges.

Source: Newsroom