The European Democrats have warned of a possible escalation of tensions in Serbia tonight, claiming they have received repeated warnings that individuals linked to President Aleksandar Vučić’s Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) may be mobilised to provoke confrontations as the first election projections emerge around 9 p.m.
In a statement, the European Democrats said the warnings raised concerns about potential deliberate provocations during a critical moment in the electoral process.
“The students want free, peaceful elections and a result decided at the ballot box,” the statement said, adding that higher voter turnout could increase Vučić’s concerns about a possible defeat and heighten the risk of provocations.
The European Democrats accused Vučić and his government of allowing a climate of intimidation and violence to develop, arguing that the authorities bear full political responsibility for preventing further escalation.
They warned that if groups linked to the SNS are mobilised to trigger clashes, Vučić must be held accountable.
The organisation also called for immediate police protection for voters, candidates, students and election observers to ensure their safety as the electoral process unfolds.
“Serbia’s future must be decided by votes, never by violence,” the statement concluded.
The warning comes amid heightened political tensions surrounding Serbia’s parliamentary elections and concerns over potential irregularities and incidents during voting. The allegations of planned provocations have not been independently verified.
