**Serbia Warned of US Sanctions on Russian-Owned Gas Supplier**
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said the United States is planning to impose sanctions on Serbia’s sole gas supplier, NIS. The company is owned by Russia‘s Gazprom Neft and its parent company, Gazprom.
Vucic made the announcement on December 13 during an interview with a government-linked television station. He warned that the move would have a significant impact on Serbia, which relies heavily on Russian gas.
The US has not commented on the reported sanctions. However, Vucic suggested that reducing Russian ownership of NIS to below 50 percent might be a solution, allowing Serbia to purchase a larger stake.
**Serbia’s Energy Dependence**
NIS is Serbia’s exclusive gas supplier and controls the main pipelines delivering gas from Russia to Serbian households and industries. The company’s website shows that Gazprom Neft owns 50% of NIS, while Gazprom holds 6.15%, and the Republic of Serbia owns 29.9%.
**Serbia’s Ties with Moscow**
Serbia has maintained close ties with Moscow and refused to impose sanctions against Russia since the invasion of Ukraine. The country is an EU candidate but has not aligned itself with Western sanctions on Russia.
**Sanctions Expected to Take Effect in January**
Vucic said the US sanctions are expected to take effect from January 1 if implemented. Serbia is currently negotiating a new gas arrangement with Russia, which expires in March 2025.
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