Vučić hopes the war will end 'tomorrow' but doesn't see the possibility

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić expressed hope during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that the war in Ukraine could end "already tomorrow." However, he admitted he does not see such possibilities materializing. The two leaders emphasized their support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and discussed potential diplomatic pathways toward ending the conflict. The meeting took place in Belgrade, marking Zelensky’s first visit to Serbia since assuming office in 2019 and his first trip since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Vučić reiterated Serbia’s unwavering backing for Ukraine’s sovereignty and its European aspirations. He stated that Serbia will continue to pursue a principled policy in support of Ukraine, adding there was no ambiguity in this stance. Vučić and Zelensky did not discuss military cooperation, focusing instead on broader strategic and humanitarian issues. Vučić acknowledged concerns over the coming winter, warning that both Ukraine and other parts of the world might face difficult conditions due to the ongoing conflict. He highlighted the destruction caused by Russian attacks, noting that nearly all thermal power plants in Ukraine have been damaged by missile strikes aimed at undermining civilian life. Zelensky praised Serbia’s support for the Ukrainian people, including humanitarian aid and advocacy for Ukraine’s territorial integrity. He called for Western allies to provide additional military assistance, emphasizing the need to exploit every opportunity for peace talks. Zelensky mentioned efforts to engage partners in Washington, Beijing, European capitals, the Middle East, and Gulf states in seeking a dignified resolution to the war. Infrastructure projects, energy, mining, and agriculture were identified as key areas of bilateral cooperation between Serbia and Ukraine. Both leaders stressed efforts to finalize a free trade agreement by the end of the year and to deliver specific humanitarian aid from Serbia to assist Ukraine’s post-war recovery. Vučić noted that Serbia has maintained close ties with Russia despite the invasion of Ukraine, avoiding sanctions against Moscow and preserving strong energy links. This position has placed Serbia among the few European countries perceived as more aligned with Russia than with the West. The discussions underscored the complex geopolitical landscape in which Serbia operates, balancing its relationships with both Russia and the West while supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty. Vučić reaffirmed Serbia’s commitment to Ukraine’s European path, aligning with Zelensky’s emphasis on integrating Ukraine into European structures. Both leaders highlighted the importance of diplomacy in resolving the conflict, acknowledging the challenges ahead but expressing determination to seek peaceful solutions through dialogue and international engagement. Their meeting reinforced the existing partnership between Serbia and Ukraine, particularly in sectors crucial for economic development and regional stability. Vučić and Zelensky concluded their meeting with mutual appreciation for each other’s leadership and the shared goal of achieving lasting peace in the region. They left the door open for further collaboration on infrastructure and energy initiatives, signaling continued interest in strengthening bilateral relations amid ongoing global tensions.