Djuric: NATO aggression on FR Yugoslavia has left lasting mark on international order

BELGRADE - History has recorded many events that have left a lasting mark on the international order - the NATO aggression against the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (FRY) on March 24, 1999, carried out without approval from the UN Security Council, is certainly one of them, Serbian FM Marko Djuric said on Tuesday.

"This tragic period went far beyond being a milestone in the lives of the Serbian people, marking a time of profound loss, hardship, and enduring consequences for our country," Djuric posted on Instagram on the 27th anniversary of the aggression.

"Over the 78 days of military action, 14,000 bombs were dropped, more than 2,000 missiles fired, and 30–50 thousand units of depleted uranium munitions were used. Civilian areas were hit during the attacks, including residential neighborhoods, hospitals, schools, bridges, public transport, and refugee convoys. Thousands of people were killed, including 89 children," he added.

"Yet, despite these misfortunes, we grew stronger and prouder, forging a future-oriented nation, still true to its dignity and its freedom.

Today, we pay tribute to all the innocent victims, and we solemnly remember those we lost. They will always be in our minds, our hearts, and our prayers. We owe it to them, and to ourselves, to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again," Djuric concluded.