Serbia seeks alternatives to Russian gas, including purchases through the EU common purchasing mechanism, announces President Aleksandar Vucic

The Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic stated that Serbia is diversifying its sources of natural gas supply, thus reducing dependence on imports from Russia, from which over 80% of the country's needs come.

In an interview with Reuters, Vucic mentioned that Serbia is in discussions for purchases through the European Union's common purchasing mechanism, aiming to secure approximately 500 million cubic meters of gas annually. Additionally, Serbia is already importing gas from Azerbaijan and plans to build a gas pipeline to North Macedonia, as well as an oil pipeline to Romania, expected to be completed by 2027. Vucic emphasized that, despite historical ties with Russia, Serbia maintains its aspiration to join the EU, in the context of international pressures to limit funding for the war in Ukraine. The president also acknowledged corruption issues within public institutions but dismissed recent protests as part of an external conspiracy. With his term expiring in 2027, Vucic suggested the possibility of early elections, without ruling out a return to the leadership of the party or as prime minister.