Serbia's president refuses to sign Ukraine-Southeast Europe Summit declaration

According to Le Monde, the leaders of Southeast European countries condemned Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

"We strongly condemn the brutal war of aggression launched by Russia against Ukraine," the declaration states.

The participating countries reaffirmed their commitment to providing comprehensive and long-term support to Ukraine and its people for as long as necessary. They also called on all nations to refrain from offering any material or other assistance to Russia's military efforts.

The declaration was signed by Romania's new president Nicușor Dan, Moldovan President Maia Sandu, the prime ministers of Bulgaria, Croatia, and Greece, as well as representatives of other Balkan countries.

However, the joint statement was not signed by the Serbian president.

Vučić told reporters that he was the only one who did not sign the Ukraine–Southeast Europe Summit declaration, saying that by doing so, he "did not betray Russia."

"Unlike the others, who are ready to support anything directed against Russia — anything they can," Vučić said.

He added that Serbia defends the interests of international public law and always acts based on its own national interests.

"I am proud of Serbia's policy, our independence, our autonomy — and we will continue in that direction," the Serbian president emphasized.

Key points from the joint statement following the Ukraine–Southeast Europe Summit:

• Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine is a grave crime against the Ukrainian people. The participants support efforts to find a diplomatic path toward a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace. They remain committed to providing full support to Ukraine for as long as necessary.

• The international community must step up its support for Ukraine and refrain from offering any material or other assistance to Russia's military efforts.

• The conditions for achieving peace include the full withdrawal of Russian troops and equipment, a complete ceasefire and end to the war, and the full restoration of Ukraine's internationally recognized borders.

• The future EU membership of Ukraine, Moldova, and Southeast European partners is vital for the long-term stability, security, and prosperity of the broader region.

• NATO membership remains the most effective security option for Ukraine, considering the cost-benefit ratio.

Vučić's visit to Ukraine

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić visited Ukraine on Wednesday, June 11 — his first visit since the start of the full-scale war. He took part in the Ukraine–Southeast Europe Summit held in Odesa, Ukraine.

During his address at the summit, Vučić stated that Serbia firmly supports Ukraine's territorial integrity in accordance with international law. He added that Serbia is ready to assist in the reconstruction of one or two Ukrainian cities or regions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Vučić also agreed to hold bilateral talks to discuss cooperation between the two countries.

Vučić visited Moscow last month, where he attended the May 9 military parade hosted by Russian President Vladimir Putin.