Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić said on Wednesday that he will speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday to discuss bilateral relations, energy cooperation, and political matters.

“It will be a conversation about all topics concerning Serbia-Russia relations, from gas supply and Serbia’s oil industry (NIS) to overall political ties,” Vučić told reporters after meeting Milorad Dodik, the president of Bosnia’s Serb entity, Republika Srpska.

He added that Dodik had asked him to relay a message to Putin on behalf of Republika Srpska, without specifying the content of the message.

Legal consequences for recent political unrest

Vučić also commented on recent incidents in the Serbian Parliament and Belgrade City Assembly, stating that anyone facing criminal charges will be held accountable.

“We will wait for the prosecution’s decision on Monday. But all those charged, whether for the National Assembly or the City Assembly, will face justice. This is a country of law, and I am certain they will be behind bars,” Vučić said.

The Serbian leader accused opponents of staging unrest to evade legal consequences, claiming that ongoing corruption investigations were nearing completion.

“They know they will have to face justice. To avoid that, they are rushing to create disorder,” he said.

Vučić: Dialogue is key, Serbia advocates for peace

Speaking on regional stability, Vučić stressed the importance of dialogue over force in resolving tensions in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

“Every conversation is better than displays of power. Serbia is committed to peace and will continue to promote dialogue,” he said, adding that Dodik was deeply concerned about rising tensions.

“I previously urged Dodik to request talks with Sarajevo, but all we received in return were insults,” Vučić said.

The Serbian president also noted the shifting geopolitical landscape, stating that Europe is increasingly distancing itself from Russia amid global turmoil. / BV