Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic attended the EU-Western Balkans summit in Tivat, Montenegro on June 4, 2026, despite explicit security warnings from Serbia's Security and Information Agency (BIA) [1, 2]. The BIA warned Vucic not to travel due to threats linked to foreign secret services and the presence of Montenegrin criminal clans [2].
Tensions have been heightened by Montenegro's political ties to Kosovo and concerns over Serbia's ruling party influence in the region [2]. Montenegro also barred a plane carrying 87 men from Serbia on June 3, citing security concerns ahead of the summit [2]. On the same day, Serbia introduced stricter border controls with Montenegro, creating long lines at crossings [2].
Vucic disclosed he was warned about an alleged assassination plot by Montenegrin criminal clans. Serbian authorities allegedly intercepted encrypted communications discussing assassination plans involving clan leaders [1]. He said, however, that he had confidence in his personal security detail, including the elite Cobras unit, and did not expect any incidents during his trip [1].
Speaking on his decision to attend, Vucic said he put Serbia's regional and European integration interests above the threats, emphasizing the importance of participating in the summit [1].
The summit proceeded with Vucic's presence despite the high-risk warnings and recent security measures. The focus now turns to regional cooperation discussions and any follow-up on the alleged threats observed by Serbian security services.
