A series of investigations and incidents in recent years have raised concerns about possible cooperation between Russian intelligence networks and actors in Serbia and Montenegro, including paramilitary training camps, espionage claims, and operations aimed at stirring tensions in Europe.
Experts say the issue reflects Belgrade’s continued political and energy ties with Moscow, as Serbia remains one of the few European countries that has not imposed sanctions on Russia following the invasion of Ukraine.
Paramilitary Training Camp Under Investigation
Authorities in Serbia are still investigating a suspected Russian-linked paramilitary camp discovered near the Drina River in western Serbia in September 2025. The investigation, led by prosecutors in Šabac, involves suspects connected to pro-Russian political circles.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić confirmed that three Russian nationals were present at the camp, though he said authorities had not officially linked the training to Russian intelligence services.
According to investigators, between 150 and 170 individuals—mainly from Moldova and Romania—participated in tactical training allegedly intended to prepare for unrest during elections in Moldova.
Suspected Operations in Paris and Berlin
Serbian authorities also arrested 11 Serbian citizens suspected of carrying out racist incidents in Paris and Berlin, targeting Jewish and Muslim communities. Investigators say the goal may have been to increase social tensions in Europe.
Reports from the investigative outlet Mediapart suggested that documents from the Kremlin indicated approval for actions aimed at fueling divisions within French society, although prosecutors in France have not confirmed these claims.
The “Russian Spy” Affair
In 2019, a video surfaced online appearing to show a Russian intelligence agent handing money to a former member of the Serbian army. Serbian officials later confirmed the authenticity of the footage, identifying the agent as Georgij Kleban.
Despite the controversy, President Aleksandar Vučić later stated the matter was considered closed after discussions with Russia’s ambassador.
Diplomatic and Intelligence Concerns
Investigations have also revealed that several Russian diplomats expelled from European Union countries for espionage were later accredited in Serbia. Analysts say this indicates that Russia still maintains access and influence in the country.
Meanwhile, Russian opposition activist Vladimir Kara-Murza previously accused Serbian officials of sharing footage of Russian dissidents with Moscow—claims that were denied by Serbian authorities.
Controversy Over Protest Investigation
During major protests in Serbia in March 2025, authorities asked Russian investigators to help determine whether a long-range acoustic device (LRAD) had been used against demonstrators. Russian security services later concluded that such weapons had not been deployed, although some NGOs disputed that finding.
Montenegro Coup Case Ends with Acquittals
In Montenegro, the long-running case related to an alleged coup attempt during the 2016 parliamentary elections concluded with acquittals after a retrial. Among those cleared were pro-Serbian politicians Milan Knežević and Andrija Mandić, along with other defendants from Russia, Serbia, and Montenegro.
Ongoing Debate Over Russian Influence
Security analysts argue that the presence of Russian networks in the Balkans signals Moscow’s continued geopolitical interest in the region. At the same time, Serbian authorities have largely avoided publicly attributing the incidents to Russian intelligence, citing the sensitivity of relations with Moscow.
