Serbia has dismissed reports that it could introduce a visa regime for Russian citizens, calling such claims “absurd.”

The Serbian government said that there are currently no grounds for reports suggesting that Belgrade could impose visa requirements on Russians, according to TASS.

“Serbia will remain a brotherly nation to Russia even after the upcoming elections in the republic,” the Serbian government said.

The statement comes amid speculation over Serbia’s future foreign policy and its relations with Russia as the country prepares for upcoming elections.

Belgrade has maintained close historical and political ties with Moscow while also pursuing its broader European integration agenda.