Mustafa Talha Öztürk
28 February 2026•Update: 28 February 2026
BELGRADE
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic warned Saturday that a war involving the United States, Israel and Iran had been “long prepared” and would not end quickly, as governments across the Western Balkans responded with calls for caution, de-escalation and heightened security.
Speaking to Informer TV, Vucic said the conflict was not unexpected and had been organized over an extended period, with significant forces deployed to the Persian Gulf.
“I do not believe World War III has begun, but I also do not think this will end in one day,” he said, adding that the struggle would likely center on political change in Tehran and have far-reaching global consequences.
Vucic said Serbia must preserve peace while strengthening its defense and maintaining dialogue with the US, announcing plans to soon present details on new air defense acquisitions.
"We must safeguard our freedom and independence, but also ensure that our citizens are not drawn into wars," he said, announcing that Serbia would soon present details on the acquisition of advanced air defense systems.
-Regional reactions
Across the Western Balkans, officials issued mixed responses.
Slovenia’s Foreign and European Affairs Minister Tanja Fajon urged immediate de-escalation and respect for international law, saying diplomacy remained the only path to stability.
Croatia’s Foreign Minister Gordan Grlic Radman said US-Israeli strikes were not aimed at civilians but warned of wider political repercussions, adding that Croatian diplomatic missions in the region were on alert.
Serbia’s Foreign Minister Marko Duric reiterated travel advisories for Iranian travel and urged Serbian citizens in the Middle East to follow guidance from embassies.
Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani said on US-based platform X that “the hour of freedom has come for the people of Iran,” thanking the leadership of the US and President Donald Trump.
“As always, the Republic of Kosovo unwaveringly stands with the United States and its allies in defending freedom, peace, security, and stability,” Osmani wrote, also condemning what she described as attacks by the Iranian regime against allies in the Middle East.
Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama said the group should be officially designated and listed among terrorist organizations, as the United States and Canada have already done. He added that Albania stands firmly with Israel and supports the United States in its actions, endorsing "every decisive effort" to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear or other military capabilities that could threaten the region.
North Macedonia’s Foreign Minister Timco Mucunski said Skopje stood with its American allies, stressing that diplomacy should remain the first option but deterrence was necessary amid ongoing threats.
The escalation has raised concerns across the region over a prolonged conflict with significant implications for regional stability and the global balance of power.
