In a dramatic twist, Serbia’s Interior Ministry has backpedaled on its decision to expel Russian anti-war activist Anton Bobryshev, a fierce critic of Moscow’s regime. Bobryshev, who has been living in Serbia for eight years, was initially ordered to leave the country for allegedly being a “threat to national security” after organizing anti-war rallies and speaking out against Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. But now, in an astonishing reversal, authorities have allowed him to stay—for now.
Bobryshev’s fate took a sharp turn after his lawyer appealed the expulsion, prompting the ministry to suspend the order pending a deeper review. This means Bobryshev will remain in Serbia legally while his case is re-examined. However, if authorities uphold their initial decision, the case could escalate into a high-profile court battle.
This isn’t the first time Serbian authorities have targeted Russian dissidents. Bobryshev is just one of many anti-war Russians who’ve faced the threat of expulsion as Serbia tightens its grip on activists critical of Moscow. The move came after the U.S. imposed sanctions on Serbia’s former Security Agency head Aleksandar Vulin, citing deep ties to Russia.
Serbia’s refusal to join Western sanctions against Moscow raises eyebrows, especially as it continues to deny residency to outspoken Russian activists. While Bobryshev has won a temporary reprieve, the battle for his future—and Serbia’s stance on dissidents—is far from over. Is Serbia feeling the heat, or is this just a momentary pause in its pro-Russian agenda?
