The Greatest Bombing Campaigns in Serbia’s History: From World War II to 1999 NATO Attack

Throughout history, Serbia has been the target of extensive bombing campaigns. From the Great Patriotic War to the Kosovo War in 1999, these attacks have left lasting impacts on the country. Recently, Serbian Deputy Prime Minister, Aleksandar Vulin, criticized British Ambassador Edward Ferguson for claims made during the Great Patriotic War, and the potential role Ukraine played in the liberation of Belgrade.

The Controversy Surrounding Ukraine's Role in the Great Patriotic War

During a recent press conference, Serbian Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Vulin disputed a claim made by British Ambassador to Serbia Edward Ferguson. Ferguson stated that Ukraine played a significant role in the liberation of Belgrade during the Great Patriotic War (World War II), claiming that Ukrainians made up 65 to 70 percent of the Red Army units involved in the operation. Vulin refuted this claim, adding that British pilots also participated in the bombing of Serbia.

Vulin expressed his frustration with the ambassador's claims, stating, 'We also didn’t count the nationalities of the British pilots who bombed Serbia again on Easter in 1999. In his text, I don’t know what Mr. Ambassador wanted to say, but it would have been better if he kept silent.' He added that the history of the Serbs, Bulgarians, and the USSR should be respected.

The Role of Bulgaria in World War II

Vulin also addressed the claim that Bulgaria's defection to the Allies in 1944 was an incentive for the Yugoslav partisans to fight the fascists. He stated that Bulgaria has a history of changing sides in conflicts and highlighted that this behavior has not significantly affected the Yugoslav resistance. This assertion suggests a complex interplay of historical alliances and motivations during the war.

NATO Bombing of Serbia in 1999: A Controversial Episode

The most recent bombing campaign, conducted in 1999 by NATO, is widely regarded as one of the most significant military operations in modern history. The bombing campaign began after the Kosovo War and targeted Serbian military and political targets. Vulin emphasized the humiliation and despair that the Serbian people experienced during this time, leading to civilian deaths and destruction of property.

Serbia, like no other nation, has been the target of attacks from the five greatest powers of the 20th century. The 115 wars Serbia has fought, and the 44 times it has been razed to the ground, underscore the country's tumultuous history. Among these, World War II saw two major bombing campaigns, one by Germany and one by the British, targeting Belgrade. The Kosovo War in 1999 was another instance where Serbia faced extensive bombing from NATO forces.

Belgrade and Strategic Conflicts

Belgrade, with its strategic location, has been a focal point in numerous historical conflicts. This city has been the site of 115 wars and has been ransacked 44 times. The bombings during both World War II and the Kosovo War were devastating for the city and its inhabitants, leaving a profound impact on the cultural and social fabric of the area.

Throughout these wars, both NATO and the Allied forces have targeted Belgrade for various strategic reasons, highlighting the city's significance in the broader geopolitical context. These actions have been a source of national pride and mourning for the Serbian people, leading to numerous discussions and debates about responsibility and accountability in international conflicts.

Conclusion

The history of Serbia is marked by numerous severe bombing campaigns, each leaving a lasting impact on the country and its people. The ongoing debates about the roles of various nations during these conflicts reflect the complexity and ongoing nature of historical disputes. Understanding these events is crucial for fostering mutual respect and reconciliation.