Despite recent hospitalization for a heart condition, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic is expected to attend Moscow’s Victory Day parade, despite EU pressure.
Serbian Finance Minister and Deputy PM Sinisa Mali indicated that President Aleksandar Vucic is likely to attend Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9, despite recent health concerns.
The parade in Moscow’s Red Square commemorates the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. The Kremlin has extended invitations to leaders from various countries, including Serbia, Slovakia, China, India, and Brazil, while EU officials have cautioned against attendance from member and candidate states.
Vucic abruptly ended a trip to the US on Friday due to chest pain during a meeting in Florida, reportedly caused by high blood pressure. This led to his hospitalization at the Military Medical Academy in Belgrade after canceling meetings with the Serbian diaspora and former US President Donald Trump. Doctors initially stated that he would need several days to recover.
Mali stated on Saturday that Vucic is likely to keep his promise to attend the event, emphasizing the President’s commitment to his word. Vucic was released from the hospital on Saturday.
The Military Medical Academy confirmed that Vucic underwent cardiovascular and hematological tests and is in stable condition. He has been advised to rest and has cancelled his activities for the next few days.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico were also invited to the event. Hungary declined, viewing the end of World War II as a “bitter defeat” due to its alliance with Nazi Germany. Fico has confirmed he will attend.
During a meeting last month, EC Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos reportedly warned Vucic that his attendance could negatively impact Serbia’s EU aspirations. Despite this, Vucic affirmed his decision to attend the event, which will also include a unit of the Serbian Armed Forces. Russian President Vladimir Putin commended those who accepted the invitation, praising their courage in the face of pressure from Brussels.
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