Macron Visits Serbia for Fighter Jet Deal

French President Emmanuel Macron is visiting Serbia to discuss a potential deal for 12 Rafale multi-purpose fighter jets, valued at approximately 3 billion euros, which is part of a broader strategy to integrate Serbia closer to the European Union. During his two-day visit, Macron will meet with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic to address military cooperation, energy ties, and advancements in artificial intelligence. Macron emphasized the need for a strong and democratic Serbia within the EU, cautioning that Serbia's balancing act between East and West is increasingly untenable in light of the Ukraine conflict. Despite Serbia's EU membership aspirations, little progress has been made under Vucic's autocratic governance in essential areas like rule of law. The Rafale deal represents a significant shift away from Serbia's traditional reliance on Russian military equipment. Macron's visit is seen as a crucial step in fostering Serbia's European integration amidst its complex geopolitical landscape.