A Knife in the Back — Russia Outraged by Israel-Serbia Cooperation

Zelensky's visit to Serbia sparked outrage among Russian Z-bloggers due to support for Ukraine and plans for joint drone production with Israel. Vucic confirmed support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and EU integration, as well as the launch of a plant with Elbit Systems. Experts call this a diplomatic defeat for the Kremlin.

The first official visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Serbia and his talks with Aleksandar Vucic caused a storm of indignation in the Z-segment of Russian social networks. Belgrade confirmed support for Ukraine's territorial integrity and advocated for its EU integration. Vucic also announced the launch in mid-September of a joint UAV production with Israeli Elbit Systems, inviting the Ukrainian delegation to the plant's opening. This provoked a sharp reaction from pro-Kremlin bloggers. At a press conference on August 8, Vucic stated readiness to help Kyiv in negotiations with the EU and emphasized support for the territorial integrity of UN member states. The parties agreed to accelerate preparations for a free trade zone agreement. Propagandist Sergei Kolyasnikov (Zergulio) criticized Serbia's leadership, calling Moscow's bet on Belgrade an illusion. Russian media note that Serbia is strengthening ties with the West, selling ammunition to third countries, and increasing technological cooperation with Israel. Experts call the visit a diplomatic defeat for the Kremlin.