The European Union is pressuring Serbia to reduce the issuance of residence permits and citizenship to Russian nationals and to bring its migration policy in line with EU standards.
According to sources, Brussels is insisting on a reduction in the number of documents issued to Russian citizens by at least 50%. Otherwise, Serbia could face consequences, including the possible revocation of visa-free travel for Serbian citizens to EU countries.
In addition, Belgrade is being asked to suspend direct air links with Russia, cancel its energy contract with Gazprom, and introduce a visa regime for Russian citizens.
Concerns are growing within the EU that Serbia has effectively become one of the key hubs for circumventing sanctions. Since the start of the war, thousands of Russians have moved to the country to conduct business, open bank accounts, and maintain access to European markets.
Brussels is increasingly making it clear that further rapprochement between Serbia and the European Union is impossible without distancing itself from Moscow.