U.S. Congressman Joe Wilson has called on Serbia to end what he described as ongoing threats against Kosovo, cut its ties with Russia, China and Iran, and fully align itself with Western institutions.
In an interview with Radio Free Europe (RFE/RL), Wilson reaffirmed his support for Kosovo’s independence while arguing that Serbia should distance itself from authoritarian powers if it wants to become part of the European Union and NATO.
Wilson, who has sponsored a resolution in the U.S. Congress calling for the 2027 OSCE Parliamentary Assembly Annual Session to be moved from Belgrade to Charleston, South Carolina, said his primary goal is to host the meeting in the United States. However, he also cited Serbia’s close relations with Russia, China and Iran, as well as its approach toward Kosovo, as major concerns.
According to Wilson, Serbia should immediately end its dependence on Russian energy and break away from Moscow’s influence.
“Serbia should simply do it because it is the right thing to do to promote freedom and democracy in the world,” Wilson said, rejecting the idea that negotiations with Russia over energy imports are sufficient.
He also criticized what he described as the “excessive influence” of Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Chinese Communist Party and Iran on Serbia, arguing that Belgrade should fully integrate into the Western political and security framework.
Wilson reiterated his strong backing for Kosovo, describing its independence as important and condemning what he called continued threats from Serbia.
“Threats from Serbia simply should not happen in the 21st century,” he said.
The congressman suggested that if logistical concerns surrounding Charleston have been resolved, the United States should host the 2027 OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, while Belgrade could instead host the event in 2028.
The OSCE Parliamentary Assembly has stated that Belgrade was selected under its established procedures after the U.S. delegation previously informed the organization that Charleston could not host the 2027 session. Wilson said those logistical issues—including catering, staffing and translation services—have since been resolved.
Wilson also praised President Donald Trump for strengthening transatlantic unity in support of Ukraine and argued that Serbia should choose “the winning side of history” by embracing democracy and distancing itself from authoritarian governments.
