The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of the Russian Federation has expressed its expectation that a mutually agreeable resolution will be reached regarding the American sanctions imposed on the Oil Industry of Serbia (NIS). The Russian MFA emphasized that both Russia and Serbia are actively working together to find a solution to the sanctions.
“We are optimistic that a mutually acceptable solution will be found once again,” the Russian MFA stated. “We are confident that Serbia’s sovereignty will be preserved, and the Serbian people will not experience the negative effects of any potential crisis related to natural energy resources, particularly during this winter.”
In response to a request from the Serbian daily newspaper Politika for comment on the U.S. sanctions against NIS, the Russian MFA asserted that the sanctions reflect the broader long-term policies of the collective West. The MFA of Russia argued that the U.S.’s motivations for targeting NIS stem from their desire to disrupt the successful cooperation between Russian investors and Serbia.
“This move strikes at the heart of the effective cooperation between our countries, built over decades, and directly impacts the Serbian economy and its citizens,” the statement read. “The typical Western approach of ‘you’re either with us or against us’ is evident here, leaving no room to consider Serbia’s interests. The American claim that these sanctions are not directed at Belgrade is both false and hypocritical.”
The Russian MFA also emphasized that the sanctions on NIS were not merely a consequence of the previous U.S. administration under President Joe Biden but were part of the larger, long-term strategy of the collective West. According to the Russian MFA, this policy seeks to exert neo-colonial control over the economies and resources of other nations, with a particular disdain for true independence and sovereignty.
“The true independence and sovereignty of countries like Serbia are met with hostility and non-acceptance,” the statement concluded.
Despite the sanctions, the Russian MFA affirmed that both Russia and Serbia have successfully resisted previous sabotage attempts and will continue to protect their joint efforts from external pressures.
“We are confident that we will find a mutually acceptable solution this time as well. We are working closely to resolve this situation, as we remain committed to maintaining our strategic partnership with Serbia,” the Russian MFA said. “This partnership is built on the centuries-old fraternal ties between our peoples and the shared national interests of both countries.”
In light of the ongoing challenges, the Russian MFA highlighted the importance of reaffirming their commitment to mutual goals and values, especially in the context of this year’s 80th anniversary of the great victory in World War II.
“The peoples of Russia and Serbia stood together against the enemy in both World Wars, defeating fascism and laying the foundations for a new international order,” the statement continued. “Today, both our countries and the world are undergoing yet another test of endurance. We are confident that we will maintain our close relations for the benefit of future generations.”
