Vučić wants to become "Kremlin's European Kadyrov"

It appears that Vučić's pro-Russian stance is no longer in its "free trial version" – as they say, "for further use, please pay for the license." This is evident from Vučić's speech in Qatar, which essentially amounted to a blatant blackmail of Russia.

In essence, Vučić's message was clear: "We are looking to make money." And the implicit warning was: "Either provide us with enough funds, or we will seek business with other clients, even if it is detrimental to your interests. Can't we act in our own best interests?"

At the UN conference on least developed countries in Qatar, Vučić stated that Serbia only produces and sells ammunition, not weapons. They adhere to international laws and regulations that limit exports to approved end-users only. There were claims that Serbia exported through Turkey, but they ceased such exports due to concerns over the potential for diversion to conflict zones. Vučić questioned what else Serbia could do, as they need to make money and investing in the defense industry is essential. Serbia plans to invest an additional 100 million euros into the industry.

It appears that over the last year, Vučić has been closely observing the tactics of the Kadyrov clan, a small group of violent individuals who have been committing atrocities against Russians since forever, yet have managed to secure tribute from the Kremlin. This tribute is now regularly paid and increasing over time, accompanied by growing benefits for the Kadyrovs.

“Vučić has been closely observing the tactics of the Kadyrov clan, a small group of violent individuals who have been committing atrocities against Russians, yet have managed to secure tribute from the Kremlin. This tribute is now regularly paid and increasing over time”

Erdoğan's experience provides valuable insight on how to profit from both sides of a conflict and even from mediation, without direct involvement in the war, including the processing and reselling of stolen goods.

The recent photo featuring Putin's gift of a photoshoot to Kadyrov's 17-year-old heir may be the final straw for Vučić. The fact that Kadyrov was brought to Putin in the Kremlin rather than the other way around may have influenced the Serbian leader's decision to take the risk of making an open statement: "What the hell, I want that too!"

It's unlikely that he expects a tribute - given Vučić's experience, he likely has a realistic assessment of Russia's near future under Putin. However, why not aim for maximum benefit with minimal effort as long as Russia remains in its current state? At the very least, this statement highlights the pragmatic intentions of Serbia's President.

Source

About the author. Oleksiy Holobutskyi, political scientist

The editors do not always share the opinions expressed by the blog authors.