Defaced Putin Mural Tells the Story of Russia’s Waning Influence
Serbia’s pro-Moscow stance looks increasingly hollow as the country juggles its economic interests and courts Chinese and Arab money.
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The face of Vladimir Putin daubed onto a building on the corner of a street in Belgrade has the eyes and mouth covered in red paint, perhaps a surprising sight in a country that’s pro-Moscow. But the friendship between Serbia and Russia is an increasingly awkward one.
The slogan “Brat” — or “Brother” — has been altered to “Rat” — Serbian for “War.” What started as a mural expressing support for the Russian president now looks like a protest as he escalates his military campaign in Ukraine.