On the evening of June 28, a large-scale rally began on Slavia Square in Belgrade, which, according to the Serbian Interior Ministry, was attended by about 35,000 people, while local sources estimate the number of protesters at more than 100,000. This action was a continuation of the protests that began in March after the tragedy at the station in Novi Sad in November 2024, when the collapse of the canopy claimed the lives of 16 people.
The protesters are demanding the resignation of President Aleksandar Vucic, early presidential and parliamentary elections, and the dissolution of parliament. President Vucic addressed the protesters with a call for peace, but rejected the protesters' ultimatum.
At the same time, a rally of Vucic supporters and students opposed to the blocking of universities during the protests was held nearby on the square in front of the parliament. After the end of the rally, opposition demonstrators moved to the parliament building, where clashes with police took place: protesters threw firecrackers, flares, bottles and stones at law enforcement officers. Police responded with shields, batons, and tear gas.
As a result of the clashes, six Interior Ministry employees and two citizens were injured, and dozens of protesters were detained. Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabic said that the protesters called for a civil war and the destruction of Serbia. The Interior Ministry and the country's leadership promised to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The protests in Serbia have been going on for several months, they are caused by distrust of the government and accusations of corruption. In March, the action gathered a record number of participants — up to 325,000, according to estimates by non-governmental organizations. Despite the pressure, Vucic managed to retain power, but the protesters continue to insist on changes.
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