Kremlin Confirms Coordination of Putin's Discussions with Allies, Including Vucic

MOSCOW - The Kremlin has reaffirmed that discussions involving Russian President Vladimir Putin and his allies, such as Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, are organized swiftly and efficiently. This statement was made by Dmitry Peskov, the spokesperson for the Russian presidency, in response to Vucic's recent comments regarding upcoming U.S. sanctions.

President Vucic indicated during a Serbian government meeting that the United States is preparing to impose sanctions against Naftna Industrija Srbije (NIS), an oil company in which Gazprom holds a significant stake. Vucic announced his intentions to request a conversation with President Putin, aiming for a date between January 25 and 27.

Peskov, when queried about the potential dialogue between the two leaders, assured that communications with friends and partners are arranged promptly. He emphasized the Kremlin's readiness to facilitate discussions at various levels, ensuring that such engagements are executed without delay.

Vucic has also stated that the U.S. sanctions are expected to be publicly announced by January 15, giving Serbia a 30-day period to respond before the sanctions take effect on February 15. During this critical window, Serbia aims to finalize a gas supply agreement and address matters concerning the NIS.

NIS is recognized as a vital energy entity in Southeast Europe, with major operations spanning Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Romania, and Hungary. The company is predominantly owned by Gazprom, which holds 56.15% of its shares, while the Serbian government possesses 29.87%.