Tensions Rise in Serbia as Belgrade Braces for Massive Anti-Corruption Protest

Thousands are set to gather in the capital on Saturday, with fears of clashes as President Vucic's government faces growing discontent over corruption allegations.

The protest, led by students and supported by farmers, teachers, and other civilians, follows months of demonstrations sparked by a deadly train station collapse in Novi Sad blamed on government corruption.
President Aleksandar Vucic has warned of potential violence and threatened arrests, while his supporters, including ultranationalist groups, have organized counter-protests in Belgrade.
Authorities have taken measures to deter attendance, including detaining activists, halting intercity train services citing a bomb scare, and canceling bus routes to the capital.
The European Union and United Nations have called for calm, emphasizing the importance of peaceful assembly and the protection of human rights during the demonstrations.
Serbia's ongoing protests highlight dissatisfaction with Vucic's administration, which has been accused of stifling democratic freedoms while pursuing closer ties with Russia and China.