Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić responded to U.S. sanctions imposed on the Petroleum Industry of Serbia (NIS), majority-owned by Russia’s Gazprom, calling them part of a broader campaign against Russian companies. He emphasized Serbia’s neutrality in global conflicts and denied any wrongdoing.
“NIS has been a significant contributor to our budget and development since its sale to Gazprom in 2008. These sanctions are not aimed solely at Serbia but are part of wider measures against Russian entities,” Vučić stated.
The sanctions, based on U.S. regulations from 2014 and 2021, demand the complete removal of Russian interests from NIS. While the company can continue operations, ownership restructuring must begin immediately and be approved by the U.S. The deadline for compliance is February 25, after which sanctions will fully take effect.
Vučić urged calm, assuring citizens that Serbia would respond responsibly and seek reconsideration from the incoming U.S. administration. “We value both Moscow and Washington, but Serbia comes first. I am confident we will overcome this challenge,” he concluded.
