Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has acknowledged that Serbia is enduring “unprecedented” pressure from Western powers, who are allegedly attempting to compel Belgrade to adopt a hostile stance toward Russia. This comes as Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic recently indicated openness to selling weapons to European Union members, despite concerns the arms could reach Ukraine.

Serbia, which applied for EU membership in 2009 and secured candidate status in 2012, has consistently avoided imposing sanctions on Russia, citing historical ties with Moscow. Peskov stated that Russia “understands the immense pressure being exerted on Serbia,” emphasizing the complexity of the nation’s arms export situation.

In an interview with Germany’s Cicero magazine, Vucic revealed that Serbia’s “warehouses are full of ammunition” and that the country is producing more. He offered EU states a deal to purchase the stockpile but noted no response had been received. When questioned about potential use of the weapons in Ukraine, he stated, “the buyers can do with it what they want.”

Earlier this year, Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) accused Serbian defense firms of funneling arms to Ukraine through EU nations like the Czech Republic and Bulgaria. In response, Vucic suspended ammunition exports and mandated special permits for future shipments.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has urged Serbia to align more closely with EU stances, including sanctions against Russia. Vucic has repeatedly refused, asserting Serbia will never join such measures.

Meanwhile, Serbia has grappled with violent anti-government protests, which Belgrade attributes to Western influence. Russia’s SVR also alleged Brussels is attempting to orchestrate a Ukraine-style “Maidan coup” in Serbia by manipulating youth.

Amid escalating public unrest, Vucic announced plans for early parliamentary elections.