While Europe continues to invest in energy independence and renewable sources, Serbia is becoming increasingly dependent on Moscow. The latest confirmation of this trend comes from Marija Deurić, head of the Russian state-owned corporation “Rosatom” representative office in Serbia, who stated that Belgrade and Moscow are engaged in active negotiations regarding the construction of a nuclear power plant in Serbia.
In an interview with Politika, Deurić said that the Russian company is “pleased with the cooperation” with Serbia and is ready to serve as a “strategic partner” in a project expected to last between 8 and 15 years. Such an initiative would tie Serbia to Russian technology, fuel, and logistics for the long term — at a time when the rest of Europe is striving to eliminate dependence on the Kremlin.
Following his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Rosatom Director General Aleksey Likhachev in Beijing, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić reaffirmed his support for the project, calling it a “historic opportunity” for Serbia. However, behind the rhetoric of “technological progress” lies a clear strategic deepening of Russian influence in the region.
While European countries are enforcing stringent safety and environmental standards, Rosatom proposes a model under complete Russian oversight — from uranium mining and fuel enrichment to waste management. This would effectively make Serbia dependent on Russian supply chains and technology, undermining Belgrade’s energy sovereignty.
During his meeting with Putin in early September in Beijing, Vučić also invited Rosatom to participate in infrastructure projects in Serbia.
Several years ago, Serbia and Rosatom signed an agreement for the construction of a Center for Nuclear Technology and established a joint venture to implement the project on Serbian territory.
In January 2025, the United States imposed sanctions on the leadership of Rosatom, including Director General Aleksey Likhachev and other members of the company’s executive board.
— The Geopost/Rks News
