Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has accused the opposition of collaborating with foreign powers to destabilize the country following student-led protests sparked by a deadly railway station collapse.
Amid ongoing student demonstrations, President Vucic alleges that the opposition is working with foreign intelligence agencies to orchestrate a “color revolution” in Serbia. These protests, triggered by the November tragedy in Novi Sad that claimed 15 lives and led to the resignation of Infrastructure Minister Goran Vesic, have seen students blocking major transportation routes.
Vucic, in a televised interview, stated that foreign agents are actively encouraging these actions, coordinated by “foreign instructors.” He characterized the opposition as tools of foreign intelligence services, utilizing students in their efforts to destabilize the nation. The protests, beginning in November, have spread across major cities, including Belgrade and Novi Sad. Students and opposition groups gather weekly, creating significant disruptions. The widespread student boycotts have resulted in the temporary closure of approximately 50 universities and schools.
The president further claimed a coalition of Western, Croatian, and Albanian interests seeks to weaken Serbia internally, aiming to hinder its international influence and incite internal conflict. He emphasized Serbia’s increased military strength compared to its neighbors, suggesting this is the motive behind the alleged destabilization efforts.
Initially focused on lithium mining projects, the protests have broadened to encompass opposition to Serbia’s stance on the Ukraine conflict. Critics have voiced concerns about Vucic’s close ties with Moscow.
Despite the unrest, President Vucic expressed confidence in Serbia’s ability to withstand these challenges, dismissing the opposition’s prospects for success and reiterating his commitment to protecting Serbia’s interests.
In December, Prime Minister Milos Vucevic echoed these concerns about external influence, referencing comments by Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova linking Western forces to attempts at Balkan destabilization, and suggesting this aligned with known “color revolution” tactics.