Serbia supports Ukraine's territorial integrity, ready to help with reconstruction – Vucic

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said this during his speech at the Ukraine-Southeast Europe Summit in Odesa on Wednesday, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

Vucic noted that Ukrainians are likely tired of hearing about broad expressions of support and promises of significant assistance, since ultimately, much depends on how Ukraine manages its own challenges.

He said that on behalf of his country, he could affirm Serbia's unwavering commitment to upholding the UN Charter and international law, including the protection of territorial integrity as recognized by the United Nations as a core principle. He stressed that Serbia had always supported this principle and would continue to do so, adding that this stance could, in some way, be beneficial for Ukraine.

Vucic said that whether Ukraine would see a ceasefire or some other outcome was up to the country's president and the Ukrainian people themselves.

He expressed hope that President Volodymyr Zelensky would support Serbia's intention to take part in the rebuilding of one or two towns or a small region, saying that such a gesture would be a tangible sign of support for the Ukrainian people.

He added that Ukraine could always count on Serbia's humanitarian assistance and continued support for its territorial integrity. Vucic said that Serbia was open to listening to Ukraine's needs and exploring how to support the country, expressing hope that, without grand declarations, Serbia would be able to do at least a little more for the Ukrainian people, who, he said, truly deserve it.

The fourth Ukraine-Southeast Europe Summit took place in Odesa on June 11. It was chaired by President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine