Serbian Minister for European Integration Nemanja Starovic has denied reports that Serbia plans to introduce visa requirements for Russian citizens, according to Sputnik.
Starovic told the news agency that joining the Schengen area serves Serbia's national interests. He said government authorities will work to fulfill all technical criteria required to prepare for entry into the zone.
The minister previously outlined a possible timeframe for joining Schengen, stating that Serbian officials have an action plan they aim to implement by the end of 2027.
Russian Response
Following the statements, Russian Federation Council Senator Grigory Karasin said Serbia has begun maneuvering between the interests of Moscow and the West. Karasin noted that Serbia had traditionally been considered a country friendly to Russia.
