Belgrade— Violent clashes broke out in central Belgrade on Saturday evening as Serbian police confronted anti-government protesters demanding snap elections and an end to President Aleksandar Vucic’s 12-year rule.
Thousands of demonstrators gathered near government buildings and parliament, with tensions flaring after 10 p.m. local time, following a peaceful protest. A group of protesters hurled bottles, rocks, and flares at riot police, who responded with force to disperse the crowd in several locations across the city center.
Police detained several dozen individuals, and six officers were injured during the confrontations, according to Police Director Dragan Vasiljevic. “They wanted to topple Serbia, and they have failed,” Vucic declared on Instagram, accusing demonstrators of attempting to overthrow the state.
The protest, led largely by students and backed by a coalition of teachers, workers, farmers, and opposition parties, is part of a months-long movement triggered by a tragic roof collapse at Novi Sad railway station last November, which killed 16 people. Protesters blame rampant corruption and negligence for the disaster.
On the same day, Vucic’s supporters gathered in a state-organized counter-rally at nearby Pionirski Park, heavily guarded by riot police. President Vucic blamed unspecified “foreign powers” for inciting unrest and insisted the police had acted with restraint. “The country will be defended, and thugs will face justice,” he told reporters.
Interior Minister Ivica Dacic warned that authorities would take firm action to restore order. “All those who attacked the police will be arrested and prosecuted,” he said.
Student groups condemned the government’s response, accusing it of escalating tensions. “They opted for violence and repression. Every radicalization is their responsibility,” read a statement on social media platform X.
Despite promising non-violence, the protesters have vowed to continue demonstrations until their demands are met. However, President Vucic has so far resisted calls for early elections. His Progressive Party-led coalition currently holds a commanding majority in parliament, with 156 out of 250 seats. His second presidential term is set to end in 2027.
In recent days, authorities arrested a dozen anti-government activists on charges of terrorism and undermining the constitution — charges that the accused deny.
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Saturday’s rally coincided with St. Vitus Day, a historic and symbolic date for Serbs commemorating the 1389 Battle of Kosovo, adding to the emotional weight of the protests.
As unrest continues to build, Serbia faces a pivotal moment in its political landscape, with growing public dissatisfaction, calls for accountability, and fears of further repression.
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