He said this in an interview with the German outlet Cicero.According to Vučić, Serbia’s situation differs from other European countries, as its economy largely depends on Russian gas.“We consume more and more gas from Russia each year, while other European countries are almost or entirely independent of it. We have a strong and growing industry that cannot function without this gas and is also important for Europe. After all, 54.5% of all exports from the Balkans to Europe come from Serbia,” he emphasized.Vučić stressed that Serbia seeks to join the European Union but continues to cooperate with Russia because of its stance on Kosovo.“Perhaps you are tired of hearing these reasons, but they are important for us. You know we have an unresolved issue in Pristina. And you know who supports us in matters of territorial integrity and who does not. Of course, this complicates the entire situation,” the Serbian president explained.Vučić also commented on his participation in the Russian Victory Day military parade. He said the Serbian delegation’s presence was historical, as the Red Army and Yugoslav partisans together liberated Belgrade.“After Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, I have not met with Putin for three years and three months, while before the war in Ukraine, I met him at least three times a year. Many European heads of state visited or called him — I did not. We condemn Russia’s attack on Ukraine, and I believe we acted fairly. But I had a duty to attend this event. Out of respect for Ukraine, we did not appear on Red Square with soldiers or military equipment,” he said.At the same time, Vučić avoided a direct answer when asked whether he was ready to break ties with Russia for Serbia’s accession to the European Union.“I don’t understand why good relations with Russia should hinder our path to the EU. We will never act against the interests of the European Union. I have told Vladimir Putin at least ten times in direct conversation that we are heading toward the EU. I have always clearly stated this desire and goal and never concealed it. People in Serbia want to live in a democracy and have better living conditions. There is no doubt about that,” he concluded.In addition, Vučić proposed a large-scale deal to the European Union on the supply of ammunition produced in Serbian factories, noting that he does not oppose these products eventually reaching Ukraine’s Defense Forces.