Fact Check: "Serbia's ammunition allegedly supplied to Ukraine, claims Russian intelligence."
What We Know
On June 23, 2025, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced a halt to all arms exports, citing national security and economic interests. He denied that this decision was influenced by allegations that Serbian munitions had reached Ukraine, stating that Serbia would only supply ammunition to its own military barracks (Kyiv Independent). This announcement followed accusations from Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) that Serbia was supplying weapons to Ukraine, despite Serbia's declared neutrality in the ongoing conflict (RFE/RL).
A 2024 investigation by the Financial Times indicated that Serbian ammunition had indeed made its way to Ukraine through intermediaries, although Serbian officials maintain that they do not directly arm either side (Kyiv Independent). The SVR claimed that Serbian ammunition was being sent to NATO countries, where it could be assembled and used by Ukraine, thus allowing Serbia to circumvent direct involvement (RFE/RL).
Analysis
The claim that Serbia has supplied ammunition to Ukraine is supported by multiple sources, including the SVR's assertions and the Financial Times investigation. However, the reliability of these claims is complicated by the geopolitical context. The SVR is a Russian state agency, and its statements may be influenced by political motivations, particularly given Serbia's complex relationship with both Russia and the West.
While the SVR's accusations are serious, they have not been independently verified by Serbian authorities, who have consistently denied any wrongdoing. For instance, the Bulgarian military company EMCO, named by the SVR as a recipient of Serbian ammunition for further shipment to Ukraine, has strongly denied these allegations, calling them "unfounded" (RFE/RL). This denial raises questions about the credibility of the SVR's claims.
Moreover, Vucic's decision to halt arms exports appears to be a strategic move to navigate the pressures from both Russia and Western countries, reflecting Serbia's precarious position in international relations. His refusal to condemn Russia's invasion while simultaneously pledging support for Ukraine's reconstruction further complicates the narrative (Kyiv Independent).
In summary, while there is evidence suggesting that Serbian ammunition has reached Ukraine, the extent and nature of this involvement remain ambiguous. The claims made by Russian intelligence are not corroborated by independent sources, and Serbian officials maintain their stance of non-involvement.
Conclusion
Verdict: Partially True
The claim that Serbia's ammunition has been supplied to Ukraine is partially true, as there are credible reports indicating that Serbian munitions have made their way to Ukraine through intermediaries. However, the direct involvement of Serbia in supplying these arms remains unverified, with Serbian officials denying any such actions. The narrative is further complicated by the geopolitical context and the reliability of the sources making the claims.
Sources
- Russia's spy agency says Serbia sold ammunition to Ukraine via Bulgaria and Czech Republic
- Serbia halts all arms exports amid Russian scrutiny over Ukraine
- Vucic Halts Ammunition Exports, Says Supplies Will Go To Serbian Army
- Russian intelligence service claims Serbia is indirectly exporting weapons to Ukraine
- Serbia Allegedly Supplied Ammo to Ukraine, Russia Threatens with Retaliation
- Moscow accuses Belgrade of betraying friendship
