Serbia is expected to sign the largest weapons deal in its modern history with France, in a sign how Russia’s war in Ukraine is prompting one of Moscow’s closest allies to diversify its arms purchases.
Belgrade is planning a €3bn order for a dozen French Rafale fighter jets from Dassault Aviation, marking a long-term commitment to the west after decades of relying on Russian aircraft.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Serbian president Aleksandar Vučić has frustrated European capitals by refusing to join western sanctions against the regime of Vladimir Putin and by keeping Serbia open for Russian business — while still maintaining its bid to join the EU.