Islamabad, July 1, 2025: Tensions are soaring in Serbia as thousands of protesters took to the streets, blocking major roads and bridges following the arrest of student-led demonstrators. The unrest reflects months of growing dissatisfaction with the government, fueled by corruption allegations and demands for early elections.
Street blockades erupted Sunday night in Belgrade, where protesters used metal fences and garbage bins to obstruct traffic, including a key Sava River bridge. In Novi Sad, ruling party offices were attacked with eggs, while similar disruptions were reported nationwide.
The demonstrators are demanding the release of dozens arrested at Saturday’s protest, accused of plotting against the state or assaulting police. The protest turned violent as clashes broke out, with police using pepper spray and batons while demonstrators hurled bottles and rocks.
President Aleksandar Vucic blamed the unrest on so-called “terrorists,” vowing more arrests and warning that “this is not the end.” He rejected calls for early elections, asserting there will be no vote before 2026.
Critics accuse Vucic of eroding democracy and fostering corruption. The recent protest follows outrage over the Novi Sad train station collapse, which killed 16 people and triggered the resignation of the prime minister.
Authorities claim 36,000 attended the rally, though independent estimates put the number at 140,000. Police reported 48 officers injured, 77 people arrested, and 38 still in custody.
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As Serbia eyes EU membership, its leadership’s alignment with Russia and China raises questions about its democratic future. The protests continue to grow, signaling a deepening crisis with no resolution in sight.
