The Serbian government invoked a fast-track route but has not disclosed what state interest justified its decision in this high-profile case.
Serbia has granted citizenship to Ukrainian businessman and former member of parliament Vadym Novynskyi. The decision was made through an expedited procedure provided for under Serbian law.
As reported by the Serbian Service of Radio Liberty.
The document was signed by Serbian Prime Minister Đuro Macut. The simplified citizenship procedure may be used when it is in the interests of the state. The authorities did not explain why this case met that criterion. The Serbian government and Ministry of Internal Affairs did not respond to requests for comment on the reasons for the decision before the information was published.
Serbian citizenship for foreigners
Novynskyi is one of hundreds of foreigners who have received Serbian citizenship through the simplified procedure. Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, hundreds of Russian citizens have also obtained Serbian passports. They include people linked to the Russian authorities and the circle of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Vadym Novynskyi’s case in Ukraine
In Ukraine, Novynskyi is suspected of treason and is wanted. In January, the State Bureau of Investigation and the Security Service of Ukraine notified him of the suspicion. Novynskyi has not commented on it publicly.
On September 18, 2025, the Pecherskyi District Court of Kyiv ordered Novynskyi’s arrest in absentia as part of the case. Serbia’s decision to grant him citizenship came amid the investigation into the allegations in Ukraine.