In an era of escalating geopolitical tensions, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Dimitry Kuleba, has embarked on a diplomatic mission to Belgrade, Serbia, and his recent statements have raised more than a few eyebrows. Through a series of tweets, Kuleba has chronicled his meetings with Serbian officials, lauding their support and discussing the future of bilateral cooperation. But the reality behind this diplomatic charade is starkly different and deeply concerning.
Kuleba’s tweets paint a picture of mutual respect and shared goals between Ukraine and Serbia. He highlights discussions with Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djuric on bilateral cooperation, expressions of gratitude to US-Sanctioned pro-Russian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic for humanitarian assistance, and engages in talks with President Aleksandar Vucic — a former propaganda minister for the genocidal Milosevic regime — about economic and political ties. This facade suggests Serbia is a steadfast ally of Ukraine, committed to its sovereignty and well-being, when in reality it is anything but.
However, a closer look reveals a troubling paradox. Just seven months after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Serbia signed a foreign policy consultancy agreement with Moscow. This pact aims to align Serbia’s foreign policy with that of Russia, casting a long shadow over Kuleba’s diplomatic endeavours. How can Kuleba cozy up to Serbia while Serbia remains a loyal ally to Russia, Ukraine’s aggressor?
Serbia is not just a passive observer in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. It hosts a Russian espionage center in Nis, from where disinformation campaigns are launched. The Wagner Cultural Center in Belgrade recruits mercenaries for the Russian armed forces, perpetuating the violence against Ukrainian people. Serbia supplies weapons and funds to Russia, refusing to impose sanctions and serving as a gateway for thousands of Russian-owned businesses that finance Putin’s war machine.
Moreover, Serbia has shown little regard for international norms and regional stability. Its aggression against Kosovo‘s northern region in September 2023, mirroring Russia’s annexation of Crimea, exemplifies Serbia’s expansionist ambitions and its disregard for the sovereignty of neighboring countries.
I was received by President of the Republic of Serbia @AVucic to build on their productive dialogue with President @ZelenskyyUa and to follow up on previous agreements between the two leaders.
— Dmytro Kuleba (@DmytroKuleba) May 13, 2024
We discussed a variety of bilateral issues. We are grateful to the Serbian President… pic.twitter.com/RRlZvF07zA
How can Kuleba ignore these actions and present Serbia as a partner in Ukraine’s quest for sovereignty and territorial integrity?
In a video message, Kuleba dismissed claims that Ukraine and Russia were close to a peace deal in spring 2022, labeling it a Russian lie. Yet, his willingness to engage with a country that actively supports and collaborates with Russia calls into question his commitment to Ukraine’s principles and its struggle for independence.
Kuleba’s diplomatic overtures to Serbia not only undermine Ukraine’s stance against Russian aggression but also betray the Ukrainian people who have suffered immensely in this conflict. By aligning with a nation that openly supports Russia, Kuleba risks legitimising Serbia’s pro-Russian policies and weakening Ukraine’s position on the international stage.
It is time for Kuleba to reconsider his diplomatic strategy. Ukraine cannot afford to ally itself with a country that aids and abets its enemy. The Ukrainian government must hold firm to its principles and seek allies who genuinely support its fight for sovereignty and democracy. Anything less is a betrayal of the Ukrainian people’s sacrifices and aspirations.
In the end, Kuleba’s visit to Belgrade and his enthusiastic tweets cannot obscure the stark reality: Serbia remains a staunch ally of Russia, and any attempt to whitewash this fact only serves to weaken Ukraine’s moral and strategic standing in the world.
As someone who has reported from Ukraine for British newspapers, witnessing Ukrainian warriors fighting valiantly against aggression, I am appalled by Kuleba’s actions. These brave souls sacrifice their blood and sweat to defend the nation, and it is a profound disrespect for their efforts when their political representative cozies up to Serbia, a staunch ally of their enemy. Instead of spending their lives with their families, these soldiers endure the trenches and battlefields. Kuleba’s diplomacy must honor their sacrifices, not undermine them by aligning with those who support their oppressors.
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Vudi Xhymshiti, founder of The Frontliner Magazine, brings a wealth of experience in reporting on global armed conflicts and political issues. With a background in Documentary Photography and Photojournalism from the University of the Arts London, and studies in Political Science, International Relations, and Diplomacy, Vudi skilfully merges human rights insights with dedicated journalism. His ethical and thoughtful reporting has graced top publications like The Guardian and The New York Times. At The Frontliner, launched in 2023, he explores the profound effects of conflicts on law, human rights, and freedoms, continuing his commitment to impactful storytelling.
