Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has vowed to take harsh measures against anti-government demonstrators following days of violent unrest across the country, the Associated Press (AP) reports.
In a televised address, Vučić accused protesters of engaging in “pure terrorism”, claiming the months-long demonstrations were orchestrated by the West with the aim of “destroying Serbia”. He also referred to what he described as a plot to install “anarcho-leftist” authorities, though he provided no concrete evidence for his claims.
Escalation After Months of Protests
The recent street clashes mark a major escalation after more than nine months of largely peaceful protests. The demonstrations began following the collapse of a railway station roof in Novi Sad, which killed 16 people. Many in Serbia blamed the tragedy on systemic corruption and substandard construction practices linked to government infrastructure projects.
Growing Criticism of Vučić’s Rule
According to AP, Vučić has faced accusations of stifling democratic freedoms, while critics argue that organized crime and corruption have flourished under his leadership. The Serbian president has consistently rejected these allegations.
Serbia Between East and West
While Serbia is formally seeking European Union membership, Vučić has maintained close ties with Russia and China. On Sunday, he praised Moscow for its support of his government, framing the protests as part of a Western-backed “color revolution” attempt to overthrow him.
