Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasised that "any interference in Serbia's internal political affairs is unacceptable" and expressed his support for the steps taken by the "legitimately elected authorities". In addition, the Russian side expressed solidarity with Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik.

"Putin took the opportunity to offer his best wishes to the President of Serbia on his recent 55th birthday. The leaders agreed to maintain contacts at various levels," the Kremlin press service said.

"The leaders expressed mutual readiness to continue strengthening the strategic partnership between Russia and Serbia, which is based on the spiritual, cultural and historical ties between the peoples of the two countries. Aleksandar Vucic confirmed that he will arrive in Moscow to take part in the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, and that he will send a unit of the Serbian Armed Forces to take part in the parade on May 9, 2025," the statement added.

Several practical issues related to ongoing bilateral cooperation in various fields, most notably energy, were discussed in detail. | BGNES