Vučić Expresses Disappointment with Russia Amid Energy Uncertainty

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Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has voiced frustration with Russia, following the announcement that Moscow will offer Serbia a gas supply contract only until the end of this year.

Speaking about the country’s economic situation after U.S. sanctions on the Serbian Oil Industry (NIS), Vučić urged citizens not to panic, but admitted that the geopolitical climate is becoming increasingly difficult.

“We are acting responsibly and seriously. We still have diesel oil in use today. The problem will arise if operations at the Pančevo refinery stop. We appealed to the Russian side, asked the Americans for help, and managed for eight months,” Vučić told Informer.

He described Russia’s short-term gas offer as “very disappointing”, saying that Serbia had expected to sign a three-year agreement by May.

“We were told in Moscow—or St. Petersburg, whichever you prefer—that they could only offer a contract until New Year. I said that was very disappointing because we had planned a three-year deal,” he stated.

Vučić warned that halting refinery operations would require two to four weeks to restart production, while stopping domestic oil pumping could take months to recover.

“We’re facing a series of challenges. Yesterday, I spoke with the director of Srbijagas, Mr. Bajatović. We have no other refinery. We must build one as soon as possible and seek assistance from China,” he added.