Serbian protesters clash with police amid massive anti-government rally in Belgrade
Updated on: May 23, 2026 / 4:35 PM EDT / AP
TL;DR
- Tens of thousands protested against President Aleksandar Vucic in Belgrade.
- Clashes between some demonstrators and riot police erupted after the main anti-government rally.
- Protesters demanded early elections, the rule of law, and accountability for a deadly 2024 train station tragedy.
- President Vucic criticized the protesters, stating they "have shown their violent nature."
- Parliament speaker Ana Brnabic downplayed the rally, citing police estimates of attendance.
- Serbia's state railway company canceled trains to Belgrade, potentially limiting attendance.
- International bodies have expressed concerns over Serbia's human rights situation and democratic backsliding.
- The EU has warned that democratic backsliding could cost Serbia significant funding.
- Students plan to challenge Vucic in upcoming elections.