The Kremlin is increasing its influence in Serbia in support of Russia’s strategic objective – preventing the Balkan states from integrating with the West. The Kremlin secured new security and economic deals with Serbia. The Russia-led Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) signed a free trade agreement with Serbia. Russia is launching new infrastructure and energy projects, including a nuclear research center. Russia has sold Serbia advanced air defense systems and signed several agreements with Serbian law enforcement agencies. The Kremlin is also using its information operations to undermine the normalization of the relationship between Serbia and Kosovo. The normalization talks have stalled for over a year now, which precludes either Kosovo or Serbia from joining the European Union (EU). The Kremlin is facing some pushback to its efforts in the Balkans, including its attempts to further deepen military cooperation with Serbia and expand the EEU in the Balkans. These setbacks reveal the limitations of Russia’s value proposition – even to its close partners – and provide an opportunity for the West to counter the Kremlin’s subversion.
OP-ED
Nataliya Bugayova, Anthony Yanchuk: The Kremlin’s block in the Balkans
Supporters of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Russian President Vladimir Putin walk towards Belgrade's Saint Sava Church on Jan. 17, 2019.
