The European Union on Wednesday dismissed Russian intelligence allegations that EU member states were financing protests in Serbia, calling the claims disinformation aimed at undermining the bloc’s image.
Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) said this week that the EU and its members were supporting “subversive activities” in Serbia, including preparing unrest for Nov. 1, the anniversary of a deadly railway accident in Novi Sad. It alleged that Brussels sought to install a government loyal to the EU with the help of media outlets funded from abroad.
Marketing expert Nebojša Krstić, a commentator close to Serbia’s ruling party, echoed parts of Moscow’s narrative, saying it was “clear that certain EU countries” were behind the demonstrations and even sent representatives to participate in violent incidents.
“This violence is sponsored, financed from some of the European countries,” Krstić told state news agency Tanjug, adding that such activities intensified after U.S. aid agency USAID cut funding to local groups.
But EU officials rejected the accusations. “These are false claims, another attempt by Russia to spread disinformation and hostile political rhetoric against the EU, its member states or candidate countries,” European Commission spokesman Guillaume Mercier told Serbian outlet Insajder.
He urged Serbian authorities to do more to counter disinformation. “Manipulation and foreign information interference, including anti-EU narratives promoted by numerous media outlets, remain serious concerns. Authorities in Serbia must take greater responsibility for curbing disinformation and ensure proactive, objective communication about the EU accession process,” Mercier said.
Mercier cited Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos, who told the European Parliament that Brussels “sincerely wants a democratic Serbia inside the European Union.”
“We will continue constructive engagement and do everything we can to help Serbia progress on its EU path. But for that to happen, concrete democratic steps and reforms are necessary,” Mercier added.