Vučić Voices Concerns Over Political Tensions in Montenegro

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić expressed his concerns regarding ongoing political tensions in Montenegro during a recent press conference. Speaking about his discussions with Milan Knežević, the leader of Serbs in Montenegro, Vučić highlighted the need for calm amid escalating critiques from supporters of Montenegrin President Milo Đukanović.

Vučić stated he had spoken with Knežević twice in one day, emphasizing that the individuals involved in recent protests were not violent offenders. “These are people who came out in front of their houses,” he said, underlining his worry about their treatment by the authorities. He noted that many had been accused of attacking police, which he contested, insisting that they were merely exercising their rights.

The Serbian leader refrained from using harsh language, expressing his desire for peace and stability in Montenegro. “I want the best for the people of Montenegro and will always show concern for our nation,” he remarked, while also addressing the accusations directed at him for interfering in Montenegrin affairs. He acknowledged that media reports claimed there were no arrests during the protests, quipping, “They took them to the fair and sugar wool, and we are all blind and did not see what happened. Fifty-four individuals were detained, however you want to call it.”

The incident gained significant attention when a video surfaced showing a police officer speaking to Knežević, leading to sensational headlines in pro-government Serbian media suggesting his arrest.

Security Concerns and Criminal Activity

In discussing broader security issues, Vučić remarked that Serbia is experiencing significant influence from criminal groups originating in Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kosovo. He emphasized the importance of enhancing Serbia’s counterintelligence capabilities and increasing personnel in special police and military units. “We are acquiring arms from various nations: France, Israel, China, Russia. We cannot allow a repeat of 1999,” he asserted, referencing historical conflicts.

Vučić also addressed the political climate in Serbia, particularly the recent student protests which have garnered substantial public support. He dismissed claims of 400,000 signatures collected in favor of scheduling elections, stating that the peak attendance at protests was around 92,000 individuals. He predicted that the upcoming elections would be crucial and acknowledged the need for careful vote counting, stating, “We will not declare a winner until we count the votes by 22:00.”

Economic Outlook and Energy Challenges

Looking toward the future, Vučić outlined Serbia’s goals for the upcoming year, focusing on peace and economic stability. He reiterated the commitment to military neutrality and adherence to United Nations resolutions regarding global crises. He acknowledged that the situation remains complex, particularly with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

On the pressing issue of energy, Vučić expressed optimism about a swift decision from the American Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) regarding the license for NIS, Serbia’s oil company. He revealed that Serbia had endured 83 days with no oil supply through the JANAF pipeline, yet assured the public of stable energy provisions despite the challenges.

Vučić emphasized the necessity for the refinery in Pančevo to remain operational for the sale of NIS and highlighted investments in new infrastructure, including a gas interconnector with North Macedonia. He acknowledged the need for both small nuclear reactors and large-scale nuclear energy to ensure future energy security.

While improvements in healthcare infrastructure have been made, including new clinical centers and hospitals, Vučić recognized ongoing challenges such as waiting lists for surgeries, particularly in orthopedics. He noted a significant reduction in the number of individuals awaiting procedures, down to 29,000 from 65,000 in October 2022. Despite advancements, he expressed concern over the reliance on fundraising for children’s medical treatments, asserting that better facilities and qualified medical professionals are available in Serbia compared to other countries.

As political dynamics continue to evolve, Vučić remains steadfast in his commitment to fostering stability and addressing the multifaceted challenges facing Serbia and the region.