President Aleksandar Vucic has accused foreign entities of instigating violent anti-government demonstrations.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has vowed decisive action to restore order following violent anti-government protests across the nation.
On Saturday, in Valjevo, protesters allegedly set fire to the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) offices after three days of clashes with riot police. Earlier in the week in Novi Sad, protesters stormed and damaged an SNS headquarters, resulting in over 60 injuries.
In a televised address on Sunday, Vucic described the rioters’ actions as “pure terrorism” and implied foreign involvement in orchestrating the protests.
”Our country is in grave danger… Unless we undertake tougher steps it is a question of days when [the protesters] will kill someone,” Vucic warned.
The protests in Serbia began in 2024 following a railway station roof collapse in Novi Sad that resulted in 16 deaths. Demonstrators cited government corruption and demanded early elections.
Vucic has consistently characterized the violence as an attempt at regime change, a sentiment echoed by Russia. In June, the Kremlin suggested the demonstrations could be an attempted “color revolution,” expressing confidence in Serbia’s ability to restore calm. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has urged Western nations not to interfere in Serbia’s internal affairs.
While Serbia is formally seeking EU membership, Vucic has maintained strong historical ties with Moscow, relying on Russia for discounted natural gas.
EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos expressed “deep concern” earlier this week regarding reports of violence. Brussels has indicated that Belgrade’s response to the unrest could affect Serbia’s EU accession process.
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