Tensions Escalate in Belgrade Amid Protests
(MENAFN) On Sunday, Belgrade witnessed violent clashes between supporters and opponents of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and his ruling SNS party.
The unrest marked the first anniversary of the deadly train station canopy collapse that resulted in 16 fatalities and ignited nationwide protests.
The tragic incident, which occurred in Novi Sad on November 1, 2024, has continued to spark outrage, particularly among university students who have been calling for justice and accountability for the disaster.
Protesters, led by individuals like Dijana Hrka—whose son perished in the collapse—gathered outside the Serbian parliament to voice their anger. They accused the government of corruption and mishandling of the situation.
Meanwhile, counter-demonstrations took place in Pionirski Park, where government supporters and students critical of the protestors' methods of blocking universities have been camped since March.
These groups rallied in defiance of the opposition’s tactics, further escalating the tensions.
Despite efforts by the police to maintain order, sporadic clashes broke out between the rival factions.
A news agency reported that bottles and firecrackers were hurled during the altercations, leading to one arrest. Serbia’s Interior Ministry pointed the finger at an "organized group" within the anti-government protesters for instigating the violence, including setting fire to a tent in Pionirski Park.
In contrast, supporters of the student blockade movement accused pro-SNS activists of initiating the attacks by throwing projectiles.
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