American congressman Joe Wilson has called on Serbia to immediately end its energy dependence on Russia and clearly distance itself from Moscow, Beijing and Tehran, embracing a full Western orientation. In an interview with the Balkan Service of Radio Free Europe, he stressed that Belgrade must align its policies with Euro-Atlantic institutions.
Të lidhura
None found
Wilson reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to Kosovo’s independence and sharply criticized what he described as continuous threats from Serbia. According to him, such behavior is unacceptable in the 21st century and Belgrade must follow in the footsteps of former Yugoslav republics that have already successfully integrated into the European Union and NATO.
Regarding the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, the American congressman has sponsored a resolution in Congress aiming to move the 2027 annual session from Belgrade to Charleston, South Carolina. As reasons for this initiative, he cited not only the desire to host the meeting in the United States, but also serious concerns about Serbia’s closeness to authoritarian regimes and its attitude toward its neighbors.
Wilson clarified that the technical obstacles that had led to the initial selection of Belgrade have now been overcome. According to him, Charleston has sufficient food capacities, a large volunteer base from institutions such as The Citadel and the College of Charleston, as well as real possibilities to provide translation services. He added that the OSCE itself provides interpreters, which makes the American city even more suitable as host.
Speaking about Serbia’s relations with major powers, the congressman emphasized that the influence of Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom he called a “war criminal,” remains the main concern. He pointed out that the Serbian state oil company NIS is Russian-owned and that Belgrade continues to buy gas and oil from Moscow. Beyond that, he warned about the growing influence of the Chinese Communist Party in the communications and investment sectors, as well as ties with the Iranian regime.
Asked whether Serbia’s negotiations with Russia to stop oil imports constitute a positive step, Wilson bluntly replied that negotiations are not enough. He argued that Belgrade can act unilaterally, without waiting for anyone’s approval, following the example of Hungary and Bulgaria which have already reduced Russian energy dependence. According to him, financing Putin’s regime through oil and gas purchases is unacceptable.
Regarding the future of the Parliamentary Assembly, the congressman suggested a possible compromise: the United States to host in 2027 and Belgrade to organize the meeting a year later, in 2028. He reiterated that his main priority remains holding the session in America and that his initiative is not directed against Serbia, but aims to promote the values of freedom and democracy in the region.
Wilson concluded by expressing hope that the Serbian people will choose the path of Western integration and break away from totalitarian influences, stressing that the world is changing and authoritarian regimes are in retreat. He cited as examples the fall of Assad in Syria, the imprisonment of Maduro and the losses of the Iranian regime, arguing that now is the time for Serbia to align itself on the winning side of history.
