Clashes broke out between protesters and police during a large anti-government demonstration in Belgrade, Serbia, following the government’s rejection of an ultimatum demanding new elections and parliament dissolution. President Aleksandar Vucic, who has previously warned against riots, reiterated the government’s claim that the protests were instigated by foreign entities. The violence erupted after the deadline set by the protesters expired at 9pm, prompting the deployment of armored vehicles and riot police to secure the area around the parliament building.
Footage from the scene showed masked protesters hurling stones, flares, and other projectiles at law enforcement officers, creating a tense atmosphere in the streets of the capital. Police chief Dragan Vasiljevic stated that officers had acted ‘professionally’ and used only ‘minimal force’ to prevent rioting, with injuries reported for six officers and two civilians, as well as several detentions. These incidents mark the latest escalation in the ongoing protests, which have drawn significant public attention.
The latest demonstration follows months of recurring, student-led protests that were initially sparked by the collapse of a concrete canopy at a railway station in Novi Sad last November. The incident, which killed 16 people, ignited nationwide outrage and demands for accountability. The government’s refusal to meet the protesters’ demands has led to escalating tensions, with both citizens and authorities expressing strong opinions on the matter. President Vucic’s assertion of foreign interference underscores the growing political polarization within the country.