The violent anti-government protests in Serbia have reached their sixth day, with numerous confrontations between demonstrators and supporters of the country’s president. The leader in Belgrade, Aleksandar Vučić, threatens harsh measures against the protesters, whom he accuses of terrorism and of seeking the “destruction of the state,” reports IPN.
In Belgrade, protesters are demanding early parliamentary elections and anti-corruption measures.
Protesters clashed with law enforcement in several cities.
The most extensive protests last week took place in Novi Sad, Vrbas, Bačka Palanka, and in the capital Belgrade, where the police used tear gas to disperse the demonstrators.
Mass protests in Serbia began after a concrete roof collapsed last year at the entrance to the Novi Sad train station. At that time, 15 people died, dozens were injured or arrested. Since then, protesters have been demanding punishment for those responsible and the resignation of the country’s leadership.
Serbian authorities accuse the protest organizers of being coordinated from abroad and aiming to overthrow the current government. President Aleksandar Vučić stated that it is a “color revolution, which endangers the country”, but also wanted to thank Russia for the support offered to the Belgrade Government.
