Anti-government protests have erupted in Serbia, leading to violent confrontations between demonstrators and police. The unrest began on August 18, 2025, and has persisted for six days, driven by widespread frustration over corruption and governance. In Belgrade, protesters targeted the offices of President Aleksandar Vučić’s Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), resulting in police employing tear gas and making numerous arrests.
Incidents of vandalism and violence have been reported across multiple cities, including Kragujevac and Novi Sad. Demonstrators expressed escalating dissatisfaction, with some even setting fire to party offices. In Valjevo, clashes manifested into outright violence as protesters exchanged flares and firecrackers with riot police. Authorities documented more than 100 arrests and reported injuries to over 120 police officers.
President Vučić addressed the nation, attributing the unrest to foreign interference and asserting that any calls for snap elections would be dismissed. He promised swift state action, stating, “We will restore order in the coming days.” His stance has been met with skepticism, as many citizens remain unconvinced by his claims of foreign orchestration behind the protests.
As tensions escalated, the Interior Minister called for calm while emphasizing legal repercussions for attacks on law enforcement. Reports indicated at least 80 civilians were also injured amid the clashes. Opposition leaders criticized the police for using excessive force, highlighting issues of arbitrary detention during the confrontations.
International observers, including the Council of Europe’s human rights commissioner, voiced concern about the police’s handling of the protests, warning that unnecessary force could exacerbate the already tense situation. Meanwhile, Russian officials expressed their support for Vučić, defending police actions as appropriate measures against aggressive elements in the crowd.
As the unrest shows no signs of abating, student-led groups announced plans to continue demonstrations in dozens of towns. Vučić hinted at potential unexpected decisions but ruled out declaring a state of emergency. His government now faces significant pressure to address the underlying concerns driving these protests or risk further instability.
"*" indicates required fields
