Vucic Reports Discovery of Explosives Near Gas Pipeline Connecting Serbia and Hungary

On Sunday, March 19, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic made alarming statements regarding the discovery of explosives during an investigation into threats to the gas infrastructure linking Serbia with Hungary. This information was reported by the Ukrainian publication 'Radio Liberty'. According to Vucic, the explosives were found near the village of Velebit in Vojvodina, just a few hundred meters from the 'TurkStream' gas pipeline.

Vucic noted that two large packages of explosives were discovered in two backpacks, which, he stated, could pose a significant threat to a large number of people and cause serious damage to the gas supply for both Serbia and Hungary. The president emphasized that law enforcement agencies have suspicions about individuals who may have been involved in this incident. 'We believe we know which group the individuals belong to who were supposed to take this final step to activate the explosives. The aim was to send a political message. We will strictly punish anyone we catch,' Vucic declared.

In light of this, Vucic held a conversation with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who also confirmed that he had called an emergency meeting of the Defense Council. 'An investigation is ongoing. I just finished a conversation with Viktor Orban. It is clear that geopolitical games will not leave us in peace,' added the Serbian president.

The Serbian Radio and Television (RTS) reported that police and military forces are conducting searches in northern Serbia, in the municipality of Kanizha, located about 15 kilometers from the border with Hungary. This situation has raised concerns among local residents, as the threat to the gas pipeline's security could have serious implications for the energy stability of the region.

It is worth noting that earlier on March 19, Serbian army personnel began heightened security measures at the compressor station in Zhabari, located in eastern Serbia, on the 'TurkStream' gas pipeline, which transports Russian gas from Turkey to Hungary. This decision was made after Vucic announced the need to enhance security at the facility due to the escalating situation in the Middle East.

Thus, the situation surrounding the 'TurkStream' gas pipeline remains tense, and the discovery of explosives underscores the seriousness of the threats that may arise in the context of geopolitical games between countries. Serbia and Hungary, which depend on this gas pipeline, must take all necessary measures to ensure the security of their gas infrastructure.