[78461] Serbia considers canceling visa-free travel for Russians on the path to EU accession

Serbia explores canceling visa-free entry for Russian citizens

According to reports that began circulating on June 1, 2026, authorities in Serbia are holding discussions on canceling the visa-free entry regime for Russian citizens. Dragan Stanojević, a member of the National Assembly of Serbia, noted in a conversation with media outlets that this move is required as part of preparations for the country's accession to the European Union. According to a report by NEXTA Live, known for its critical stance toward Russia, this is one of the necessary conditions the Union is imposing on Belgrade.

Speaker of the Serbian Parliament, Ana Brnabić, declared that Serbia no longer views Moscow as a "sister nation," emphasizing that Belgrade supports the territorial integrity of Ukraine and identifies with the values of the European Union. Pro-government Russian media outlets, such as Tsargrad TV, termed these moves "Russophobic convulsions" on the part of the European Union, while other channels associated with support for the Kremlin, such as Absatz, expressed disappointment at Serbia's distancing from the common path.

However, there is uncertainty regarding the exact timeline. According to Stanojević's words in The Moscow Times, the country is still far from actual accession to the Union, and canceling the visa exemption too early could harm the local economy. On the other hand, channels close to the government in Serbia, such as Serbia — LIVE, claim that these are media "spins" based on a misinterpretation of a politician's words who does not represent the official stance of the ruling party.

At the same time, there is a visible attempt by figures at high levels in Serbia, particularly President Aleksandar Vučić, to position the country as pragmatic, with an emphasis on relations with the United States and appreciation for Donald Trump. Reports on Serbia — LIVE emphasize that President Vučić views Trump as a popular and rational figure, which points to a "multi-vector policy" that Serbia continues to manage despite European pressures.