Breaking News: Putin Discusses Gas Supply Contract with Serbia at Eastern Economic Forum
At the recent Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok, Russian President Vladimir Putin sat down with Serbian Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vulin to talk about the upcoming expiration of a gas supply contract in March 2025.
Despite Serbia’s aspirations to join the EU, the country has maintained strong ties with Russia, especially in terms of energy supply. With the current geopolitical climate following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Serbia’s stance on the issue has been carefully balanced, with President Aleksandar Vucic condemning the military actions but refraining from imposing sanctions on Moscow.
While Serbia heavily relies on gas from Russia and has strong business connections with Russian companies like NIS oil monopoly, efforts are being made to diversify energy sources.
During the meeting, Vulin reassured Putin of Serbia’s commitment to its relationship with Russia, emphasizing that the country will not join NATO, impose sanctions on Russia, or allow anti-Russian activities on its soil.
Notably, Vulin, a former head of Serbia’s state security agency, is under US sanctions for his alleged involvement in supporting Russia’s activities and connections to illicit operations.
His visit to Russia coincided with Serbia’s recent agreement with France’s Dassault Aviation to purchase 12 Rafale fighter jets, a move that signals a shift away from Russia as its main weapons supplier.
The deal is valued at 2.7 billion euros ($2.98 billion).