Serbia’s Evolving Relationship with the U.S. Under Trump

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has stated that relations between Serbia and the United States have significantly evolved under President Donald Trump. This shift has altered public opinions in a country where the memories of NATO’s 1999 bombing campaign are still vivid.

Speaking with Fox News Digital, Vučić praised Trump’s approach to the Balkans. He emphasized the administration’s focus on economic collaboration, which resonated with many in Serbia. “President Trump and his team have been working diligently on the Western Balkans,” Vučić said. He noted a dramatic difference in how Serbs view Trump’s administration compared to past U.S. governments. “If you ask people in Serbia to compare Clinton’s administration to Trump’s, or Democrats to Republicans, you would find a decisive preference for Trump,” he stated.

“I hope we’ll be able to host him,” Vučić said, suggesting an enthusiastic welcome for Trump.

Vučić spoke about improving ties with the U.S., now focused on economic, investment, and technological cooperation. He mentioned a strategic dialogue between the two nations, focusing on energy, infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and defense cooperation. Several projects are under discussion, including energy infrastructure and advanced computing technologies.

Serbia aims to become a regional economic hub and continues to pursue EU membership. Vučić highlighted the preparations for Expo 2027 in Belgrade, involving nearly 150 countries, as evidence of Serbia’s international and economic aspirations. He pointed to Serbia’s economic growth as a sign of transformation, noting the growth of Serbia’s GDP from 32 billion euros to an expected 100 billion euros in 2023.

Vučić’s association with Trump began with economic normalization agreements between Serbia and Kosovo. Rather than focusing on Kosovo’s status, which remains a contentious issue, Trump’s administration prioritized infrastructure and investment. In September 2020, under Trump’s mediation, Vučić and then-Kosovo Prime Minister Avdullah Hoti signed economic agreements that included commitments to enhance transport links and promote investment.

On the topic of recognizing Kosovo, Vučić reiterated the importance of economic cooperation and better relations before discussing political status. “I’m open to discussions and developing economic ties but not necessarily recognition,” he stressed.

Serbia maintains ties with Russia and China, a balancing act scrutinized amid geopolitical tensions. Vučić defended pragmatic diplomacy, citing Trump’s engagement with China as driven by business interests, not personal motives. Vučić applies the same approach for Serbia’s benefit, prioritizing economic opportunities over ideological positions.

Vučić expressed concern over rising global antisemitism but affirmed Serbia’s stance of cooperation with Israel. “We proudly collaborate with Israel,” he declared, distinguishing Serbia’s position from some European countries. Vučić promised to resist antisemitic trends during his presidency.