Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić stated that he supports young people involved in the student political movement, arguing that they have faced strong criticism simply for expressing their views and engaging in political activities.
Speaking to journalists while attending a ceremony related to a government program supporting the development of wine, beer, and spirits production capacities, Vučić commented on claims that public opinion toward the student movement has shifted.
He said the students were initially widely supported as part of an undefined youth movement but alleged that certain political actors attempted to use the movement as a pathway to gain power, despite lacking the capacity to achieve it through their own efforts.
According to Vučić, tensions increased after students began asserting their own political ambitions.
“When the young people realized they could take on political roles themselves and fight in a different way, they were then accused of being worse than Vučić,” he said.
Vučić added that the students have been targeted because they refuse to allow others to rule Serbia on their behalf. He emphasized that he stands with them and encouraged their continued political participation.
“My job is to say that I am on the side of these young people. Let them continue to fight — they are finally engaging in politics,” Vučić stated.
He also noted that, in his view, young activists have moved beyond what he described as “empty and meaningless discussions,” becoming part of Serbia’s political landscape.
Responding to criticism that he had made a “cowardly” visit to Novi Sad, Vučić dismissed the allegations, stating that he was in Petrovaradin during lunch and that he focuses on more serious matters. He also used sarcasm to respond to the accusations, questioning how critics might react if he simply visited a pastry shop while in opposition.
