Serbian President Vučić's health scare casts doubt on Moscow visit
The President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, has been discharged from a hospital in Belgrade following a sudden decline in his health. He had previously returned to the country, cutting short his visit to the United States. His scheduled visit to Moscow is now uncertain.
What you need to know
- The President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, has left the hospital in Belgrade after his health worsened during his visit to the United States. His cardiologist has confirmed that his condition is stable, but he will be unable to perform his duties for a few days.
- The unexpected return to Serbia has prompted discussions regarding Vučić's planned visit to Moscow on 9th May. The President was supposed to attend the military parade for "Victory Day" and meet Vladimir Putin.
- Finance Minister Siniša Mali, who was with Vučić in the United States, provided information on his health. Mali shared that the President felt unwell during preparations for a meeting with Donald Trump.
What were Vučić's plans in the United States?
The President of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić travelled to the United States with the intention of meeting with President Donald Trump and other prominent figures, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Special Envoy Richard Grenell.
The discussions were expected to address American sanctions on a Serbian oil company, in which the Russian company Gazprom holds a majority stake. However, Vučić's sudden health issues forced him to return to Serbia prematurely.
Will Vučić go to Moscow?
The planned visit by the Serbian President to Moscow, where he was to attend a military parade for "Victory Day", is uncertain.
Some media outlets and opposition figures suggest that Vučić's health issues might be used as an excuse to avoid a trip that the European Union has preemptively criticised. Brussels has made it clear that it will take diplomatic actions against any countries participating in celebrations in Moscow, including both EU members and those wishing to join. Serbia is on this list.
However, Minister Mali expressed hope that the President will honour his commitment and visit Russia.
