EditVučić states support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity during Zelenskyy’s first visit since the war began
The Serbian President was careful to clarify that the discussions did not touch on military cooperation
In a landmark diplomatic encounter, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Belgrade on Saturday, marking Zelenskyy’s first official visit to Serbia since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. The talks, held at the Palace of Serbia, centred on mutual support for territorial integrity, expanded humanitarian assistance, economic cooperation and both countries’ European Union aspirations.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Vučić described Ukraine as a “friendly country” and underlined Serbia’s unwavering commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter and General Assembly resolutions. “Serbia will continue to support Ukraine’s territorial integrity,” he said, adding that Belgrade is equally grateful for Kyiv’s consistent backing of Serbia’s own territorial integrity. “There is no ‘but’ on this issue. Our principled policy is precise, clear and definitive,” Vučić stated firmly.
The Serbian leader expressed satisfaction at hosting Zelenskyy and noted that the two presidents had held “long and good talks” over the past two days. Discussions covered a broad range of bilateral relations, with both sides expressing hope that concrete results would follow in multiple areas of social and economic life.
A key outcome was the announcement of new forms of humanitarian support. Vučić confirmed that Serbia has already earmarked a significant package of medical supplies and will provide additional assistance in the energy sector, including equipment needed particularly for the coming winter. “I believe our Ukrainian friends will be somewhat more satisfied in the future,” he said. Serbia has also agreed to invest substantially in the reconstruction of a small Ukrainian town that has suffered repeated Russian attacks.
Zelenskyy thanked Serbia for the respect shown to Ukraine, for its support to the Ukrainian people and for the defence of the country’s territorial integrity. He specifically welcomed the new humanitarian package focused on healthcare and energy. “This is of exceptional importance,” the Ukrainian president said, noting that Russian strikes the previous night alone had killed 13 people and that critical civilian infrastructure remains under constant attack.
On the economic front, the two leaders highlighted growing trade. Bilateral exchange reached approximately USD 450 million last year and already stands at around USD 321 million in the first six months of 2026. Iron ore is currently Serbia’s most important import from Ukraine. Vučić expressed optimism that cooperation in agriculture, energy, mining and infrastructure could significantly increase these figures. The sides also discussed joint infrastructure projects and the possible engagement of Ukrainian companies in Serbia. A memorandum of understanding on animal health and food safety was signed between Serbia’s Ministry of Agriculture and Ukraine’s State Service for Food Safety and Consumer Protection.
Both presidents addressed European integration. Vučić pledged full Serbian support for Ukraine’s EU path and stressed that Belgrade would never obstruct Kyiv’s accession. “We will never say: ‘Take us first, we started earlier, don’t take Ukraine,’” he declared. Serbia, he noted, cannot open certain clusters itself and therefore has no interest in blocking others. Zelenskyy, in turn, voiced hope that every European nation aspiring to join the Union would receive a stronger signal of support from Brussels.
Vučić was careful to clarify that the discussions did not touch on military cooperation. “We did not talk about any kind of military cooperation, and what happens after the war ends is another matter,” he said. He expressed hope that “the killing will stop tomorrow,” while candidly admitting he sees no clear path to an immediate end to the conflict and fears a difficult winter ahead, primarily for the Ukrainian people.
Looking further ahead, Vučić suggested that once the war concludes, Serbia and Ukraine could deepen cooperation on third markets, particularly in Africa and Asia, and learn from each other in areas such as railway infrastructure. Zelenskyy emphasised that Ukraine seeks a “dignified peace” and urged the use of every diplomatic opportunity – in Washington, Beijing, European capitals, the Middle East and beyond – to achieve lasting security.
The visit carries particular symbolic weight. Serbia has maintained traditionally close ties with Russia and has refused to impose sanctions on Moscow, a stance that has complicated its own EU accession. Zelenskyy’s presence in Belgrade therefore represents a notable shift in regional diplomacy, demonstrating that even longstanding geopolitical alignments can accommodate pragmatic engagement when mutual interests and principles of territorial integrity converge.
Some Western commentators say the visit is likely to infuriate Russian President Vladimir Putin, who regards Aleksandar Vučić as his strongest remaining ally in Europe.
Caption: Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic (R) speaks during a press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky (L) following their meeting in Belgrade, Serbia, 08 August 2026. Zelenskyy is in Serbia for an official visit. EPA/ANDREJ CUKIC
Updated: August 8, 2026 - 15:33
