AGP Executive Report

Budget Pressure: Serbia’s state coffers are deeper in the red than promised, with Radar reporting a July deficit of nearly RSD98 billion (about EUR833m) and Finance Minister Sinisa Mali paying part of a Rafale installment early. Diplomacy & Security: PM Djuro Macut met Namibia’s interior minister to expand cooperation, while Deputy PM Ivica Dacic met the UAE ambassador on improving driving-licence recognition and e-gates for UAE nationals at Belgrade Airport. Youth & Community: President Aleksandar Vučić welcomed diaspora youth at the “Serbia Is Calling You 2026” camp, stressing roots and a homecoming message. Wildfires & Heat: Emergency services battled renewed blazes, including a Deliblato Sands fire near Belgrade, as extreme heat and drought keep fire danger high. Regional Reality Check: Danube drought is also hitting Serbia’s power and fuel flows, with low water disrupting navigation and hydro output. Politics: New opinion polling shows 49% of respondents think Serbia is moving the wrong way, a worrying sign for the government. Culture: Serbia’s film scene gets a boost as Jelena Maksimović’s “Until the Day Ends” heads to Venice after being acquired for premiere.

Danube Drought & Energy Security: Serbia is scrambling to keep fuel supplies steady as record-low Danube levels disrupt imports and raise costs, with Mining and Energy Minister Dubravka Đedović Handanović saying NIS output and state reserves should cover demand through August 28. Historic Finds From the Riverbed: The same drought is exposing WWII wrecks and even mammoth bones along the Danube, including Nazi-era ships near Prahovo, while river traffic and cruises face cancellations. Kosovo-Metohija Politics: Belgrade’s Office for Kosovo-Metohija says Pristina’s court summonses for Srpska lista officials are “continued pressure” on Serbs, with proceedings tied to alleged document forgery. FIFA Fallout: Serbian and other federations have joined the growing pushback against FIFA chief Gianni Infantino amid claims of opaque governance and pressure tactics, with Infantino reportedly offering Morocco the 2030 final in exchange for support. Belgrade–China Ties: A Belgrade deputy mayor met a Fujian delegation to expand cooperation in investment, trade, digitalisation, tourism and culture. Culture Spotlight: Young Serbian director Jelena Maksimović’s debut film “Until the Day Ends” was acquired for Venice 2026, a multi-country Balkan coproduction.

Energy & Sanctions Watch: Serbia’s Mining and Energy Minister Dubravka Djedović Handanović met NIS CEO Kirill Tyurdenev to assure steady fuel supply in August, while warning that Danube low-water levels are making oil-derivative imports harder and pricier ahead of a US OFAC licence expiry on August 28. Belgrade–China Ties: Belgrade deputy mayor Vesna Vidošić hosted a Fujian delegation, discussing new cooperation in digitalisation, trade, investment, tourism and culture after a Belgrade–Xiamen twinning deal. Danube Drought Fallout: Record-low Danube levels are exposing WWII German warships near Prahovo, with some still carrying ammunition, while drought also threatens power generation and disrupts shipping and tourism across the region. Sports & Culture: Serbia’s presence in regional sports and events continues, from volleyball’s push for more top-tier competitions in China to local cultural programming like Sarajevo Film Festival’s open-air selection. Security Abroad: A drone with an explosive device was found and defused at Germany’s Leipzig/Halle Airport, prompting heightened security coordination.

Danube Drought Exposes WWII Wrecks: Record-low water on the Danube has revealed Nazi German warships near Prahovo, Serbia, along with other relics like mammoth remains, while drought also threatens power generation and forces conservation steps across Central and Eastern Europe. Kosovo Mass Grave Search Expands: Kosovo authorities say they’ve identified a third potential mass grave site tied to the 1998–99 war; 11 sets of remains have been found so far, with DNA identification expected to take months. Serbian Student Movement Registers: Serbia’s student movement has registered an association and says it’s preparing for possible snap parliamentary elections, publishing a statute focused on democracy and fair elections. Energy Pressure From Heat and Water Shortages: Europe’s heatwave and shrinking rivers are disrupting electricity supply and transport, with nuclear plants and hydropower operations under strain as governments push people and businesses to use less. FIFA Infantino Backlash Continues: Pressure on FIFA chief Gianni Infantino grows after his abandoned plan to bring private investors into World Cup operations, with more football bodies distancing themselves. Paramount-Warner Bros Antitrust Trial Set: A U.S. judge scheduled the merger antitrust trial for March 2027, extending the legal fight over the $110bn deal.

Diplomacy: Serbian FM Marko Đurić met São Tomé and Príncipe PM Américo Ramos in Belgrade, thanking the country for its non-recognition of “Kosovo” and pushing deeper ties in education, health, agriculture, digitalisation and culture, with EXPO 2027 participation confirmed. Commemoration: On the 31st anniversary of Croatia’s “Operation Storm,” Serbia marked the Day of Remembrance for Serbs killed and expelled, with PM Đuro Macut calling remembrance a moral obligation and President Vučić saying “peace works” for Serbia’s interests as he toured Republika Srpska. Education: The Independent Union of Education Workers warned the proposed education law amendments are “disastrous,” saying they would silence critics and limit student and parent participation, with a Constitutional Court debate set for Aug. 5. Energy & climate: Europe’s extreme heat and drought are hitting the Danube and other rivers, forcing nuclear output cuts and reactor shutdowns; France also shut three more reactors as water levels fall. Football governance: Wales, Serbia and Sweden withdrew support for FIFA chief Gianni Infantino’s re-election amid the fallout from FIFA’s abandoned $4.2bn plan to sell stakes in World Cup commercial rights. Culture: “Arnaia Wedding” from Greece is set to be presented in Serbia in September, linking Eastern Halkidiki folklore with Leskovac’s Capital of Culture events.

Energy Crisis: Record-low Danube levels are forcing emergency steps across Central and Eastern Europe, with Hungary’s Paks nuclear plant pushed to the brink and Serbia’s hydropower output hit as drought and heat keep demand rising. Local Water Security: In Vojvodina, the Danube–Tisza–Danube canal network faces drying up, triggering a state of emergency and new water-use restrictions. Politics at Home: Serbia’s student protest movement says its “Student Ticket” association has been registered with the Business Registers Agency, as the wider protest push continues. Government Diplomacy: PM Đuro Macut met Sao Tome and Principe’s PM, thanking the country for support on Serbia’s sovereignty and integrity. International Relations: Serbia and Zimbabwe signed new MoUs in Belgrade and Zimbabwe said it will reopen a diplomatic and consular office in the Serbian capital. Sport & Culture: UFC Belgrade sparked a wave of fighter reactions online, while Sarajevo Film Festival unveiled its Open Air lineup for Aug. 14–21. Football Governance: Serbia joined other European federations withdrawing support for FIFA chief Gianni Infantino’s re-election amid the World Cup stake controversy.

Serbia Energy Watch: Prime Minister Djuro Macut says Serbia’s energy system is stable but urges people to cut electricity and water use as Danube levels hit record lows; the Emergency Response Headquarters met and authorities are also working to keep the Danube navigation regime running. Regional Climate Pressure: Across Central and Eastern Europe, drought and extreme heat are pushing power plants toward shutdowns, with Hungary’s Paks nuclear plant reportedly forced down as the Danube drops to around 10 cm in Budapest. Kosovo War Crimes: Kosovo authorities identified a second suspected wartime mass grave in Zubin Potok area (Jabuke), seeking court permission for exhumation after earlier digs found remains of victims from the 1998-1999 war. Diplomacy: President Aleksandar Vučić is on a three-day visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina, meeting Republika Srpska leaders and local communities, including a stop at Rmanj monastery and visits to Drvar and memorial sites. Business & Trade: OFAC extended NIS’s operating license until August 28, allowing the company to keep processing crude oil. Belgrade Spotlight: A Turkish national was arrested at Belgrade airport in connection with the death of Russian model Lyudmila Turkova, whose body was found in a suitcase in a canal. Local Economy: Heatwave demand is boosting air-conditioner sales in Serbia, with Chinese brands gaining share thanks to price, reliability, and after-sales service. Sports: UFC Belgrade saw Hailey Cowan retire after a loss, while Serbian MMA and football chatter continues alongside Danube-related headlines.

UFC Belgrade Fever: Uroš Medić turned his Serbia homecoming into a headline moment, blasting Daniel Rodriguez with a 30-second knockout and sparking a massive crowd eruption, while co-main star Navajo Stirling also stopped Jan Blachowicz in the first round. Danube Drought Shock: Record-low Danube levels are hitting the region’s power and transport plans, with Bulgaria’s Kozloduy NPP still running on schedule and Hungary facing possible electricity restrictions as the river level drops. Wildfire Crisis in Greece: Two firefighting helicopters collided near Athens while battling a blaze that has destroyed 100+ homes; one crew survived, and investigations are underway as evacuations continue on Kefalonia. Serbian Sports on the Rise: Liman (SRB) won the inaugural FIBA 3x3 Darkhan Challenger 2026, and Ub (SRB) captured the FIBA 3x3 Athens Challenger title—both adding more momentum for Serbian teams. Local Culture & Community: An Osaka “Expo Food Passport” stamp rally is keeping Expo spirit alive through restaurant visits and rewards.

UFC Belgrade Fever: Uroš Medić electrified Belgrade Arena with a 30-second main-event TKO over Daniel Rodriguez, tying a UFC knockout streak and sparking calls for big future fights. Local Sports Spotlight: Rangers’ new Serbian midfielder Vanja Dragojevic is being framed as ready for Old Firm intensity after his Partizan rise. Serbian Talent on the Global Stage: Navajo Stirling stunned Jan Blachowicz in the co-main, while UFC Belgrade also saw multiple quick finishes and a heated referee controversy. Heat & Travel Pressure: Drought and record-low Danube levels are disrupting transport and tourism, while Europe’s wildfire season continues to hit Greece hard. Border Chaos: Long queues at the Croatia–Serbia crossing show how the EU’s new biometric entry system is straining peak summer travel. Public Safety & Society: A Russian body-art model was found in a suitcase in Serbia, with police investigating the case. Politics & Perception: A global risk poll says politics is a top personal safety concern for Serbians, alongside the U.S. and parts of Europe.

UFC Belgrade Fever: Uroš Medić needed just 30 seconds to stop Daniel Rodriguez in the main event, surviving an early knockdown and sparking a huge home-crowd celebration as UFC’s first Serbia show set a record with 10 first-round finishes. Light Heavyweight Shock: Navajo Stirling also blitzed Jan Blachowicz with a first-round TKO, pushing a new contender into the title mix. Belgrade Spotlight: Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić is set to meet UFC boss Dana White ahead of the landmark event, underscoring how sport is becoming a major Serbia-to-the-world moment. Heat and Travel Strain: Drought and record-low Danube levels are disrupting transport and tourism, while at the Croatia–Serbia border travelers faced up to eight-hour waits as the EU’s EES biometric system hit peak summer traffic. Energy Watch: The US extended NIS’s operating licence until August 28 as negotiations over the Russian stake continue. Culture & Memory: Germany marks the European Roma Holocaust Memorial Day on August 2, recalling the Auschwitz “Gypsy Family Camp” liquidation. Public Debate: A viral Trump banner at UFC Belgrade triggered backlash and debate among fans.

Border Strain: Hourslong queues at the Bajakovo-Batrovci crossing between Croatia and Serbia hit travelers with waits up to eight hours in sweltering heat, as peak summer traffic and new EU entry rules add pressure. Danube Heatwave Fallout: Record-low Danube levels are exposing old shipwrecks, including a WWII-era Nazi vessel near Prahovo, Serbia—another stark reminder of drought’s impact on tourism and industry. UFC Serbia Spotlight: UFC makes its Belgrade debut today with Uros Medic vs Daniel Rodriguez as the main event, plus Jan Blachowicz vs Navajo Stirling in the co-main—fans can watch on Paramount+. Energy & Sanctions: Serbia secured a new US sanctions waiver for NIS, extending operations and crude imports until Aug. 28 while talks with MOL continue. Wildfire Pressure on Europe: Greece, Spain and France remain on high alert as winds fuel fresh blazes and evacuations, keeping the region’s heatwave crisis in focus. Local Culture: Vidin hosted its 10th International Vintage Vehicle Parade, drawing classic car and motorcycle owners from across the region.

UFC Belgrade Homecoming: Serbia hosts the UFC for the first time as Uros Medic headlines against Daniel Rodriguez, with the card also featuring Jan Blachowicz vs. Navajo Stirling and other local matchups at Belgrade Arena on Aug. 1. Road Safety Warning: A new Europe-wide study ranks Serbia among the most dangerous countries for drivers, citing 74 road deaths per million people in 2025. Energy Under Strain: Prime Minister Djuro Macut says Serbia’s power system is stable but urges rational electricity use as heatwave conditions and low water levels pressure hydro output. Serbia–North Macedonia Talks: Macut met North Macedonia’s PM Hristijan Mickoski in Ohrid, focusing on transport links, energy connectivity, agriculture and tourism. Russian Oil Update: Serbia secured a new US sanctions waiver for NIS, extending crude imports until Aug. 28 while MOL negotiates the Russian stake purchase. Media Ownership Watch: Reporters Without Borders warns that the ANN sale could weaken editorial independence and calls for transparency. Crime in Belgrade: A Russian woman’s body was found in a suitcase near Belgrade, with a Turkish suspect detained. Danube Drought Fallout: Record-low Danube levels are exposing shipwrecks and ancient remains and disrupting tourism and transport across the region.

Serbia-Europe diplomacy: Serbian PM Đuro Macut will visit North Macedonia on Friday for talks with PM Hristijan Mickoski, with a delegation including energy, transport, construction and agriculture ministers. Elections & rights: An ODIHR needs-assessment recommends a full-scale election observation mission for Serbia’s upcoming, highly polarized vote, citing media and campaign-condition concerns; meanwhile, the Green-Left Front says it will back the student-movement election ticket, aiming for a break with the current regime and a push for Serbia’s EU path. Kosovo & Metohija: From 1 August, Orthodox pilgrims must be accompanied by a Pristina-licensed guide, a move analysts say targets Serb arrivals and could clash with freedom of movement and religious practice. Regional governance: Serbia’s government survived a no-confidence vote in parliament, as the country heads toward an autumn election. Environment: The Danube is at record lows, with drought and heat disrupting shipping and power cooling across the region, including Serbia. Culture & society: Serbia marked the transfer of Theodor Herzl’s family remains to Israel, with Foreign Minister Marko Đurić attending the ceremony at Belgrade Airport.

Danube Drought Shock: The Danube hit record lows in Budapest, falling to 26cm—disrupting shipping, tourism, and even exposing sandbanks and old wrecks across Serbia and the region. Kosovo-Serb Pressure Claims: Serbian FM Marko Đurić says Kosovo authorities’ demolitions, monastery works, and barriers against pilgrims show a “deliberate pattern” against Serbs, urging EU/OSCE/KFOR action. Heatwave Safety: Greece reported three firefighter deaths as wildfires worsen under extreme heat and winds, with evacuations and major blazes spreading across southern Europe. Belgrade Sports Spotlight: UFC lands in Serbia for the first time, with Daniel Rodriguez facing Uroš Medic in Belgrade—an event framed as a major step for the country’s fight scene. Air Serbia Connectivity: Air Serbia will run year-round Belgrade–Dubrovnik flights in winter, adding more reliable links between Serbia and the Adriatic. Women’s Rights: Serbian feminists welcomed Montenegro’s new menstrual leave law, hoping similar protections arrive in Serbia. Business/Industry: DPM Metals reported record Q2 results and declared a dividend, while LPP Logistics expanded e-commerce fulfillment in Romania with hundreds of robots serving Serbia among other markets. Legal/Immigration: India’s FM Jaishankar said 414 Indian nationals were deported from the US in early 2026, with Serbia listed among European countries affected.

Danube Crisis: Record-low Danube water levels are disrupting shipping, tourism and even nuclear cooling, with Hungary cutting output at Paks and Romania shutting reactors at Cernavoda as drought and a new heatwave bite across Central Europe. Heatwave Warnings: Serbia’s meteorological service warns of 33–38°C today and up to 40°C from Friday, with tropical nights and a hydrological alert for the Danube, Sava and Tisa. Parliament & Politics: Serbia’s parliament rejected an opposition no-confidence motion against the government, with PM Djuro Macut saying results—not words—will answer citizens. Kosovo Tensions: Kosovo authorities detained two Serbs over alleged 1999 war crimes tied to a suspected mass grave excavation near Zubin Potok. Diplomacy: Serbia and Albania agreed in principle to open consular offices in Shkodra and Bujanovac. Public Safety: Police evacuated 186 tourists after a cruise ship ran aground on the dried-up Danube near Vidin. Road Safety: A study ranks Serbia among Europe’s deadliest for driving, with 74 road deaths per million people.

Climate & Energy: Serbia is bracing for a second heatwave as Danube water levels hit “historic lows,” leaving barges stranded, disrupting fuel imports and hydropower, and raising wildfire fears across the Balkans. Parliament & Politics: MPs clashed during the no-confidence debate, with opposition questioning President Aleksandar Vučić’s possible prime minister run and ministers pushing back amid a wider “scandals” backdrop. Economy & Wages: Serbia’s average net monthly wage rose to 118,398 dinars in May (+9.9% y/y nominal, +6.2% real), with the median net wage at 93,277 dinars. Belgrade Community: Belgrade police announced the first-ever National Night Out on Aug. 4, inviting residents to meet first responders and explore emergency equipment. Sport (UFC in Serbia): UFC Belgrade is set for Saturday, with home contender Uros Medic headlining against Daniel Rodriguez, while BRAVE CF bantamweight champion Borislav “Zombee” Nikolić moves to the UFC. Culture: A tribute concert, “Freedom – A Tribute to George Michael,” is scheduled for Oct. 12 at mts Dvorana.