Moscow claims Belgrade betrayed friendship

(MENAFN) Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has accused Serbia of betraying its historic ties with Moscow by continuing to supply weapons to Ukraine. In a statement released Monday, the SVR claimed that despite Serbia’s official stance of neutrality, Serbian defense companies are actively involved in arming Ukraine through indirect channels.

According to the SVR, Serbian-made ammunition is being exported as component kits to NATO member states, particularly the Czech Republic and Bulgaria. These parts are assembled in those countries and then sent to Ukraine, allowing Belgrade to avoid directly supplying Kiev while still contributing to its military efforts.

The intelligence agency alleged that Serbian manufacturers are fully aware their products ultimately reach Ukraine’s armed forces and are used against Russian soldiers and civilians. The SVR criticized Serbia for abandoning its traditions of friendship with Russia in favor of profits and what it called “cowardly multi-vectorism.”

In response to the latest accusations, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced on Monday that Belgrade has halted all ammunition exports and will now require special government approvals for future shipments. “We have now stopped everything and are keeping it for our army,” Vucic said.

This claim mirrors similar allegations made by the SVR in May, when it accused Serbian firms of covertly sending large quantities of rockets and ammunition to Ukraine through falsified paperwork and rerouted shipments. At the time, Vucic denied any direct arms deals with Kiev and insisted Serbian law forbids arms exports to nations engaged in war. He pledged to crack down on any violations of export controls.

Moscow has consistently condemned Western and foreign military assistance to Ukraine, arguing it only prolongs the conflict and increases casualties without altering its eventual outcome.

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