Vučić told the outlet that Trump is "by far the most popular American political leader in Serbia in a very long time", citing Christian values, a desire for peace, and economic pragmatism as key drivers of that support.
The Serbian president attributed part of Trump's popularity to lingering resentment over past U.S. policy.
"Over the last thirty years, the U.S. was seen as a country that pressured and blackmailed us, especially during the Clinton era and after the bombings", Vučić said, referring to NATO's 1999 military campaign over Kosovo. "But Serbians always loved the U.S. and the American dream and wanted a new chapter in relations between our two countries".
Vučić also pointed to Trump's messaging on faith and tradition. "Christian values and the preservation of tradition played an important role — values that Serbian citizens hold dear", he said.
He added that Trump's stated desire to end global conflicts resonated strongly. "People saw that President Trump wants peace between Ukraine and Russia and peace in other parts of the world. They appreciated that very much".
On the economic front, Vučić described Trump as "a very pragmatic and rational person" focused on investment and trade, saying Serbians saw an opportunity to build stronger economic ties with the United States.
Extending his invitation, Vučić promised that at least 100,000 people would turn out to greet the U.S. president in Belgrade.
(jh)
Source: PAP