In a pointed critique of transparency in Serbian governance, university professor and former Deputy Prime Minister Žarko Korać stated that “in all civilized countries, when a president goes to the hospital, the hospital must report on his health condition”—a standard he says Serbia continues to ignore.
The commentary comes in light of recent speculation over President Vučić’s sudden return from Florida, where he was reportedly scheduled to meet with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Korać stressed that media speculation and vague statements from doctors and Deputy PM Siniša Mali are inadequate in a democratic society.
“What does a doctor’s statement to the media mean? That is not the way,” said Korać. “Trump had a medical examination and a full report was published. If Vučić returned due to health problems like hypertension or a heart condition, why didn’t he stay there for observation?”
Korać also addressed Vučić’s upcoming visit to Moscow for Victory Day on May 9, suggesting that it’s not just a diplomatic move, but a calculated political message to his pro-Russian electorate.
“He nurtures that electorate,” Korać noted. “Serbia, apart from Belarus, is the only European country that still allows Russian state media to operate. It works as a propaganda tool.”
According to Korać, Vučić has spent the last two decades glorifying Russia while quietly sending arms to Ukraine via Bulgaria to show Western powers that he remains cooperative—a dual strategy that has served him well politically.
