Serbia Protests: Clashes Erupt in Belgrade
Massive anti-government protests have shaken Belgrade, Serbia, as demonstrators demand early elections and an end to President Aleksandar Vucic's long tenure.
Key Developments:
- An estimated 140,000 protesters flooded the capital.
- Clashes with police occurred, resulting in the use of tear gas and stun grenades.
- Dozens were arrested during the unrest.
President Vucic has accused foreign actors of instigating the protests to destabilize the country, a claim he made via his Instagram account.
The protests, fueled by corruption allegations and concerns over media freedom, have been ongoing for months, with various sectors, including students, teachers, and farmers, participating.
The catalyst for the initial wave of protests was the tragic collapse of Novi Sad railway station's roof in November, an incident blamed on widespread corruption.
Organizers of the recent rally condemned the police response, accusing authorities of choosing violence over addressing the protesters' demands. Protesters are calling for radical change and demanding Serbians to "take freedom into your own hands."