Serbia Approves Transit of 960 Artillery Shells to Ukraine Amid Russian Accusations
In a surprising move that has raised eyebrows in international relations, Serbia has approved the transit of 960 artillery shells, specifically 155 mm caliber, manufactured in Bosnia and Herzegovina, intended for a Czech company supplying the Ukrainian military. This decision was made public in June 2025, shortly after Russia's Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) accused Serbia of indirectly aiding Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.
This approval was issued by Serbia’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, with the backing of both the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The shells, sold by the Herzegovina-based company Podin, are reportedly produced at the Sarajevo factory Pretis, which is co-owned by the American defense contractor Regulus Global. This development comes amidst Serbia's declared policy of military neutrality and its historically close ties with Russia, positioning the Balkan nation in a complex geopolitical landscape.
The decision to allow the transit of these artillery shells is significant, as it marks a potential shift in Serbia's military cooperation dynamics. While Serbia has maintained a stance of neutrality, its actions suggest a willingness to engage in military support for Ukraine, albeit indirectly. This transaction highlights the intricate relationships within the region and raises questions about Serbia's long-term foreign policy strategy. The timing of the permit, coming just days after Russian accusations, underscores the delicate balance Serbia is attempting to maintain between its traditional ally, Russia, and the pressures from Western nations to support Ukraine.
Experts suggest that Serbia's decision could be indicative of a broader trend in Eastern European politics, where nations are increasingly navigating complex alliances. This situation mirrors other recent developments in international relations, such as the U.S. greenlighting a $322 million arms deal to bolster Ukraine's defense against ongoing threats. As previously reported, the geopolitical landscape is evolving, with various countries reassessing their positions in light of the ongoing conflict. Analysts argue that Serbia's actions may be a response to mounting pressure from Western allies, who are keen to see increased support for Ukraine against Russian aggression.
The implications of Serbia's approval extend beyond the immediate military transaction. It raises concerns about the potential for increased tensions with Russia, which has historically viewed Serbia as a strategic ally in the Balkans. As Serbia navigates this new terrain, the potential for diplomatic fallout is significant. The decision could lead to a reassessment of Serbia's relationships not only with Russia but also with other nations in the region, as they gauge the ramifications of Serbia's actions on their own foreign policies.
Looking ahead, the future of Serbia's military neutrality remains uncertain. As the conflict in Ukraine continues to unfold, Serbia may find itself under increasing pressure to align more closely with Western military strategies. The approval of the transit of artillery shells could be just the beginning of a more involved role in regional security dynamics. Observers will be closely monitoring Serbia's next steps as it balances its historical ties with Russia against the backdrop of evolving international relations, particularly in light of recent developments in Ukraine's peace talks and humanitarian efforts.
