Vučić warned of a 'military alliance' of Balkan neighbors. Promised to strengthen the Serbian army, while others are arming too
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić highlighted concerns about a military alliance among neighboring Balkan countries and announced plans to bolster Serbia's military capabilities during a speech at the Munich Security Conference.
During the Munich Security Conference, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić expressed concerns over a potential military alliance among the Balkan neighbors of Zagreb, Tirana, and Pristina, calling it the greatest threat to Serbia. He refrained from identifying who authorized this alliance, emphasizing the need to protect Serbia's interests. Vučić's comments reflect a growing apprehension about regional military collaborations, which he implied could destabilize the area further.
In response to these perceived threats, Vučić announced significant investments into Serbia's defense industry, signaling a shift in military policy where the Serbian armed forces would significantly increase domestic procurement from local arms manufacturers. Currently, only 10 to 18 percent of the production from the defense sector was allocated for the Serbian military, but he plans to raise that figure to between 30 and 40 percent. This strategy not only aims to strengthen Serbia's military position but also seeks to enhance the country's arms export capacity.
Vučić's remarks are particularly noteworthy as they come against the backdrop of frail transatlantic relations and signify Serbia's intent to bolster its military readiness amidst rising regional tensions. The formation of alliances among neighboring countries could provoke an arms race in the Balkans, making it imperative for Serbia to assert its military capabilities in order to maintain stability in the region and guard against potential threats from those alliances that he claims are emerging.