The new government in Serbia, led by Prime Minister-designate Milos Vucevic, will include former intelligence chief Aleksandar Vulin as one of several vice-premiers. Vulin, who has close ties with Russia, has been sanctioned by the United States for alleged involvement in illegal arms shipments, drug trafficking, and misuse of public office. Despite Serbia’s formal efforts to seek European Union membership, the inclusion of Vulin in the new government suggests continued friendly relations with Russia and a deviation from the pro-EU path.
Vulin’s appointment comes amid tensions between Serbia’s desire for EU membership and its friendly relationship with Russia. According to the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, Vulin used his public authority to assist a U.S.-sanctioned Serbian arms dealer in moving illegal arms shipments across Serbia’s borders. Additionally, he has been accused of involvement in a drug trafficking ring. Vulin resigned as the director of Serbia’s intelligence agency BIA after the U.S. imposed sanctions on him, but has served in various high-ranking positions within the Serbian government in the past.
Vucevic, the new prime-minister designate, has a background in defense and has served as the defense minister in the past. The composition of the future cabinet, which is expected to be voted into office in the coming days, also indicates the government’s alignment with the ruling populist right-wing party of President Aleksandar Vucic, which won the most seats in the December parliamentary election. However, the election was marred by widespread reports of irregularities, sparking political tensions and leading to street protests organized by opposition groups.
Serbia’s strategic partnerships with countries like Russia and China, in addition to seeking EU membership, reflect the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region. While formally pursuing closer ties with the EU, Serbia has maintained friendly relations with Russia and has refrained from joining Western sanctions against Moscow over the war in Ukraine. The inclusion of individuals like Vulin in the new government underscores Serbia’s balancing act between its pro-EU aspirations and its historical and cultural ties to Russia.
The political landscape in Serbia remains contentious, with opposing factions clashing over issues such as election integrity and the country’s foreign policy direction. The formation of the new government, along with the inclusion of figures like Vulin who have faced sanctions from Western countries, signals a continued defiance of pressure from the West and a commitment to maintaining close ties with Russia. As Serbia navigates its path towards EU membership, it must balance its geopolitical interests while addressing domestic concerns and upholding democratic principles.
