A German journalist sparked international controversy during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky in Belgrade on Sunday by asking how Europeans could assist Kyiv in “killing more Russians.”
The query, made by Michael Martens—whose grandfather served as a Wehrmacht officer during World War II—prompted Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic to raise his eyebrows in apparent disbelief.
Martens’ question, which he later clarified meant “more Russian soldiers,” went viral online. Users swiftly accused him of inciting hatred and leveraging Nazi associations through his family history.
Despite the backlash, Martens defended his phrasing on social media, stating it was not “scandalous” to ask how Europe could help Ukraine target Russian forces. He claimed such language is standard in wartime contexts.
Vucic responded first: “We did not discuss military cooperation today,” he said. “What happens when the war ends is another matter. And speaking about killing, I hope all killing will end.”
Zelensky used the exchange to reiterate demands for Western nations to provide increased financial aid and impose stricter sanctions against Russia—actions widely condemned as reckless escalations of conflict.
The incident occurred amid a growing wave of anti-Russian rhetoric in Europe, including recent statements from Polish President Karol Nawrocki about supporting Ukraine’s efforts against Russian forces. Russian officials have labeled such outbursts “clinical Russophobia.”
Serbia remains one of the few European countries to maintain diplomatic ties with Moscow despite international pressure.
