Serbia braces for significant protest amid rising tensions
Belgrade is preparing for a massive anti-government protest that will take place on Saturday. Students from across the country arrived in the capital on Friday. Authorities are warning of potential acts of violence and possible arrests.
The Serbian capital, Belgrade, is on alert ahead of Saturday's planned large anti-government protest.
Authorities, led by President Aleksandar Vučić, are cautioning against the potential for violence and the arrest of participants. The demonstration is the culmination of months of protests against corruption in the country.
Thousands of students have arrived in Belgrade
Thousands of students and other citizens from across Serbia have traveled to Belgrade to participate in Saturday's protest. This event is seen as a test for Vučić's right-wing government, which is facing growing social discontent.
On Friday, police detained six opposition activists on charges of preparing actions against the constitutional order.
Authorities found a car with German licence plates in Belgrade, which contained petrol bombs and other dangerous items.
The European Union emphasised that "freedom of assembly is a fundamental right" and called for ensuring the safety of protest participants.
Preparations for the protest
Students marching or cycling to Belgrade for several days arrived in the city by Friday evening. Thousands of people filled the streets, waving flags, blowing whistles, shouting, and playing music - the capital was pulsating. And this is just the beginning. Photos and videos have already surfaced on the internet.
Government actions against protesters
Meanwhile, due to security concerns, authorities have closed the parliament building for three days.
The Serbian railway suspended all intercity connections due to an alleged bomb threat, which is seen as an attempt to prevent people from reaching Belgrade. There were also reports of cancelled bus routes, prompting students to organise carpooling.
The protests began after the collapse of a railway station roof, resulting in the death of 15 people. This event is attributed to government corruption and neglect. President Vučić rejected proposals to form a transitional government and accused the West of trying to overthrow him.
