Ukraine, Serbia Deepen Ties in Belgrade

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić discussed humanitarian aid, economic cooperation and potential joint infrastructure projects during Zelenskyy’s first official visit to Serbia. The meeting took place in Belgrade on Aug. 8, 2026.

Zelenskyy thanked Serbia for supporting Ukrainians who relocated to the country following Russia’s invasion, as well as for its stated support for Ukraine’s independence and territorial integrity. He also welcomed a new Serbian humanitarian assistance package focused on medical supplies and energy, along with Serbia’s readiness to help rebuild a Ukrainian city heavily damaged by the war.

The leaders discussed energy cooperation ahead of winter, as well as potential projects involving infrastructure, ports and railways. Serbia expressed interest in Ukraine’s experience developing railway infrastructure. They also addressed food security and the need to accelerate an agreement establishing a free-trade area between the two countries. Bilateral trade totaled $442.2 million last year and reached $345.9 million in the first half of 2026, according to the Ukrainian presidency.

The talks also covered European integration and diplomatic efforts to end the war. Zelenskyy said Ukraine supports Serbia’s progress toward European Union membership, while Vučić reaffirmed Serbia’s support for Ukraine’s European path. In the leaders’ presence, Ukrainian and Serbian agricultural authorities signed a memorandum on animal health, food safety and food-quality standards, including cooperation to prevent the spread of infectious animal diseases.