United Group responds to audio recording published by OCCRP: Conversation between the two CEOs took place which was a business discussion

"United Group confirms that a conversation between the two CEOs took place which was a business discussion. Earlier this year, United Group sold various assets to Telekom Srbija. Following that transaction, it is both routine and necessary for there to be communication between the companies. United Group notes that the recording is incomplete and does not reflect the full conversation and context of those discussions", according to the statement.

It stressed that "at no time did Telekom Srbija or any other entity or person exert or seek to exert any pressure on United Group concerning the employment of Aleksandra Subotić" and that United Group "does not bow to political influence of any kind."

"Aleksandra Subotić is not employed as a member of the editorial staff at any United Group news organisation, nor has she ever been a member of the editorial staff. Recent reports in the media suggesting that Ms Subotić is part of the editorial team are incorrect. Ms Subotić works in the management team at United Group and she remains in her position. Mr Miller stated in the recording that he would not be terminating Ms Subotić’s employment", said the statement.

It added that United Group "is firmly committed to maintaining a consistent and clear separation between management and editorial decisions."

"In fact, it has recently engaged two independent international advisors to conduct a review of its news operations, with the aim of taking further steps to ensure their independence. Any suggestion that United Group is seeking to undermine the independence of its news organisations is firmly denied. United Group condemns the unlawful recording of private conversations, as in this instance", it underlined.