Escalation of Protests in Serbia Triggers Violence and Arrests

• Protests in Serbia continue, accompanied by violence.
• The police are using tear gas and armored vehicles.
• President Vucic supports the police's actions, condemning the accusations of violence.

Protests against the government in Serbia began on the night of August 16, 2025. As a result of clashes with the police in Belgrade and other cities, numerous arrests were made, and reports were received about the use of excessive force by the authorities. This is already the fourth day of protests, which started after the tragedy involving the abduction of a child at the railway station in Novi Sad, which resulted in the death of 16 people.

According to eyewitness accounts, the police used tear gas and armored vehicles to disperse the protesters, who were hiding under the gas: "Let’s show that we are not afraid for our homes." Protesters, many of whom were in masks, threw stones and eggs at the police.

President of Serbia Aleksandar Vucic stated that the state is stronger than any protest and praised the police for their conduct. The Minister of Internal Affairs Ivica Dacic condemned the accusations of excessive use of force, accusing the protesters of attacking human rights defenders.

The protests, which initially had a peaceful character, have turned into violence, leading to condemnation from international organizations. EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kost earlier this week expressed concern over the violence during the protests.

Tags: Europe/Politics