Danube Bridge Main Structure Connected in Novi Sad; Vučić Hails Project Amid Trade Tensions

The main structural component of a new bridge spanning the Danube River near Novi Sad was successfully connected on June 18, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the Fruskin Corridor infrastructure project. The bridge spans 1,700 meters in total length including approach structures, with a central span of 505.75 meters crossing the river itself. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić praised the accomplishment as a grand initiative and thanked all personnel involved in the construction.

During his visit to the bridge site, Vučić addressed broader economic and geopolitical concerns affecting Serbia. He commented on the U.S. decision to detain copper shipments from Zijin Copper, a major Serbian exporter based in Bor that employs 7,000 workers in eastern Serbia. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued an order to hold copper and copper products from Srbija Zijin Copper D.O.O. due to suspicions that goods were produced using forced labor. Vučić characterized the detention as negative news for Serbia and emphasized ongoing discussions with American officials to resolve the issue.

Vučić stressed the importance of Chinese investment to Serbia's economy, noting that Zijin Copper and Linglong are among Serbia's largest exporters and significantly contribute to economic development. He acknowledged Serbia's vulnerable position in geopolitical conflicts, stating that while the United States and China dominate global power dynamics, Serbia and other smaller nations inevitably bear costs. He referenced similar challenges facing the Smederevo iron works, which faces European Union quota restrictions.

The president expressed confidence that dialogue with American officials would yield resolution and pledged full government support for the companies affected. He also announced expectations that fuel excise tax reductions, which had been cut by 20 percent, would be partially restored the following day, reducing the cut to 10 percent, with potential for complete removal of excise reductions within the week. Zijin Copper responded to the CBP detention order by stating it conducts comprehensive reviews and reaffirming its opposition to all forms of forced labor and commitment to protecting worker rights.