In Valjevo, clashes erupted between protestors and riot police, with allegations of police brutality emerging amidst widespread anger following a tragic railway station collapse last November that claimed 16 lives. Protesters are demanding accountability and early elections, fueling tensions in the country.
During protests, riot police deployed stun grenades and tear gas, and although many demonstrations had remained peaceful beforehand, recent counter-protests by pro-government supporters have heightened the conflict. Concerns regarding police violence have been raised by international figures such as the Council of Europe's commissioner for human rights, who urged a de-escalation of the situation. President Vučić denounced the unrest as sponsored by foreign interests and vowed to punish the perpetrators, while Russian authorities extended support to his administration, underscoring the fragile political landscape in Serbia.
As protests continue to unfold daily, the initial calls for justice following the Novi Sad tragedy have morphed into broader demands for political reform, reflecting deep-rooted discontent within Serbian society.
During protests, riot police deployed stun grenades and tear gas, and although many demonstrations had remained peaceful beforehand, recent counter-protests by pro-government supporters have heightened the conflict. Concerns regarding police violence have been raised by international figures such as the Council of Europe's commissioner for human rights, who urged a de-escalation of the situation. President Vučić denounced the unrest as sponsored by foreign interests and vowed to punish the perpetrators, while Russian authorities extended support to his administration, underscoring the fragile political landscape in Serbia.
As protests continue to unfold daily, the initial calls for justice following the Novi Sad tragedy have morphed into broader demands for political reform, reflecting deep-rooted discontent within Serbian society.
