**Serbia Haults Arms Exports Amid Criticism Over Ukraine Allegations**
In a surprise move, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced on June 23 that Serbia has put an end to all arms exports. The decision was made in the name of national security and economic interests, according to Vucic.
Speaking after a meeting with senior military officials, Vucic stated that Serbia is only sending ammunition to its own barracks, and all exports are suspended. This move comes as criticism over allegations that Serbian munitions have ended up in Ukraine continues to grow.
**The Background**
Serbia has been walking a tightrope since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Belgrade has maintained friendly ties with Moscow while trying not to offend the West. In recent years, there have been claims that Serbian ammunition has made its way to Ukraine through intermediaries.
In May, Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service accused Serbia of supplying weapons to Kyiv, despite Belgrade’s declared neutrality in the conflict. An investigation by the Financial Times in 2024 found that Serbian artillery shells had indeed reached Ukraine, although Serbia maintained it did not directly arm either side.
**Vucic’s Balancing Act**
Serbia’s President Vucic has been trying to find a middle ground between Russia and the West. In his latest balancing act, he refused to sign a declaration condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, while pledging support for Kyiv’s reconstruction efforts. This move was seen as a way to maintain good relations with Moscow without completely alienating the West.
**The Impact**
By halting all arms exports, Serbia is trying to address criticism over allegations that its munitions have ended up in Ukraine. However, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact Serbia’s relationships with Russia and the West.
As the world continues to navigate the complexities of the conflict in Ukraine, Serbia’s move may be seen as an attempt to maintain a delicate balance between competing interests.
