Protests in Serbia turn violent amid government crackdown
Tensions are escalating in Serbia, where President Aleksandar Vučić is tightening his grip on dissent. For five consecutive days, demonstrators have taken to the streets in major cities, with protests turning violent over the weekend.
Clashes broke out in Belgrade and other urban centers between protesters and pro-government groups, with some demonstrators setting fire to offices of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) and its coalition allies. Security forces have been accused of excessive force in dispersing crowds.
Placards reading “Arrest Vučić” were seen across the country, signaling deepening anger against the president, who has been in power since 2012. Many accuse his government of corruption and authoritarianism, with student-led demonstrations continuing since last autumn.
President Vučić dismissed the protests as “pure terrorism,” claiming they were orchestrated by foreign actors. He vowed harsher measures, warning: “You will witness the determination of the Serbian state. We will use all means at our disposal to restore peace and order.”
Observers say the recent escalation is the most serious wave of unrest since the Yugoslav era, with protests initially sparked by a tragic incident last November, when the collapse of a bus shelter in Novi Sad killed 15 people. The tragedy fueled public outrage over corruption and mismanagement.
Meanwhile, the European Union has largely remained silent. Despite mounting concerns over human rights violations and Vučić’s close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, EU leaders have continued to reaffirm Serbia’s path toward accession.
