Former Serbian Intelligence Chief Designated Persona Non Grata by the US
Aleksandar Vulin, ex-chief of Serbia's Security and Information Agency, has been declared an unwelcome person by the United States, amid controversy over foreign influences in Serbia. Vulin has openly credited Russia for its support during recent political turbulence.
Taylor Brooks
- 2023-12-28
- Updated 07:35 AM ET
(NewsNibs) - Aleksandar Vulin, the former head of Serbia’s Security and Information Agency and a prominent Serbian official, has recently been declared persona non grata by the United States. The declaration followed Vulin's acknowledgments that Russia played a key role in helping Serbia maintain its constitutional order during opposition-led disturbances in the Serbian capital, Belgrade. Vulin has asserted Russia's status as an ally, stating that it respects the will of the Serbian people and underlining that Serbia has not imposed sanctions on Russia despite increasing anti-Russian sentiments globally. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has indeed refrained from sanctioning Russia, a stance that Vulin attributes to a decision made from the beginning of the geopolitical tension.
Responses to Western Pressure
Vulin has been vocal in his belief that Western-imposed sanctions have ultimately served Serbia's interests by preventing the removal of President Vučić from power. Moreover, he asserts that the Western nations are the forces behind the violent protests that have erupted in Belgrade. According to Vulin, there was an unsuccessful attempt by Western entities to incite right-wing movements to partake in the demonstrations in the city. He further suggests that Western ambitions extend to pressing Serbia into recognizing Kosovo's independence, ceasing support for Republika Srpska, and imposing sanctions on Russia—all outcomes in contrast to Vučić’s current policies.
Alleged Color Revolution and Electoral Tactics
Vulin contends that his ousting from the head of the special service was part of a broader Western plot to overthrow Vučić, framing such pressure as a precursor to a 'color revolution.' This assertion is linked to his view that the West believes Serbia will not recognize Kosovo and will refrain from sanctioning Russia as long as Vučić remains in power. Vulin also believes his resignation served as a strategic move to minimize attacks against the administration during the election. He insinuates that the recent electoral defeat of the pro-NATO party in Serbia would lead to intensified attempts to remove Vučić from leadership.
Aleksandar Vulin's designations by the United States as persona non grata highlight the ongoing tensions between Western influences and the current Serbian administration. This development and Vulin's remarks underscore the complex geopolitical allegiances and internal dynamics at play in the Balkan region.
