Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Serbia for his first official state visit, a move requiring careful political balancing. Despite Russia's ongoing war, Serbia is widely regarded as Europe's most pro-Russian country. For President Aleksandar Vucic, who has ruled for 14 years, the visit serves as a balancing act ahead of crucial parliamentary elections and rising student-led protests.

Vucic aims to portray the visit as an ordinary state meeting focused on European paths and energy cooperation. However, observers note the strategic importance of the meeting, as Zelenskyy may seek to secure Serbian munitions. Reports suggest that Serbian artillery shells delivered to Ukraine through intermediaries reached a value of €1 billion in 2024.

While Serbia promotes an "Orthodox brotherhood" with Russia, the Kremlin has signaled dissatisfaction through short-term gas contracts. Consequently, Vucic must navigate between Moscow and the EU to maintain his economic model and political power amidst unpredictable domestic opposition.