Anti-government protests have erupted in Belgrade, Serbia, with thousands of demonstrators demanding the dissolution of the government and the holding of snap elections. The protests, which have persisted for eight months since the tragic collapse of a canopy in Nov, are part of a larger movement sparked by calls for political and criminal accountability following the incident. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has warned protesters against violence, declaring his commitment to defend the country and accusing foreign powers of attempting to destabilize the nation.
Footage from the scene shows protesters amassing at the central Slavija Square in Belgrade, chanting slogans and unfurling a large Serbian flag. The Serbian authorities have rejected the demand, with President Aleksandar Vucic stating only the government was ready to “hear out” the protesters and warning them against violence. The country’s leadership has repeatedly suggested the unrest is being stirred up from abroad and described the protests as an attempt at a ‘color revolution.’
Vucic reiterated this stance earlier on Saturday, blaming the unrest on unspecified “foreign powers.” “The country will be defended, and thugs will face justice,” Vucic told reporters. The canopy collapse in Novi Sad killed 16 people and led to demands for political and criminal accountability. The latest round of protests coincides with Vidovdan, Serbia’s main national and religious holiday, which is celebrated on June 28.