Serbian Ambassador to Russia talks about pressure from the West

Serbia is under pressure because of friendly relations with the Russian Federation. Despite this, Belgrade will not join the Western sanctions. Serbian Ambassador to Russia Momcilo Babic told Izvestia on September 15 at the celebration of the Day of Unity, freedom and the national flag of Serbia.

"We are under pressure because of our close, friendly relations with Russia, and not imposing sanctions against it. Western diplomats tell me this almost openly, advising me, ostensibly in a friendly tone, to think about friendship with Russia. But there can be no reflection — we have no right to betray our ancestors," he said.

Non-union position: The EU may slow down Serbia's European integration

This will be a response to the suppression of mass protests, Brussels noted.

On September 2, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic called the conversation with Russian leader Vladimir Putin in Beijing very honest and important. He also expressed hope for strengthening bilateral relations and stated his principled position not to support anti-Russian sanctions, despite pressure from the West.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.