A driver smashed into anti-government protesters in Belgrade, leaving a 26-year-old woman injured, as nationwide demonstrations and strikes brought Serbia to a standstill.
The protests, led by furious students, are demanding justice for 15 deaths caused by a roof collapse at Novi Sad train station. Many blame government corruption for the tragedy, claiming shoddy construction and shady deals were to blame.
The 24-year-old driver was arrested after ploughing into a crowd in New Belgrade. It’s the second incident of its kind this month, sparking outrage among demonstrators.
While cities erupted in protest, President Aleksandar Vučić hosted a rival rally in Jagodina. Addressing his supporters, Vučić claimed Serbia was under attack by “foreign forces” trying to break its close ties with Russia and China.
“They won’t beat us!” he told the crowd, while accusing students of working with foreign spies. He also announced a new nationalist political movement to tighten his grip on power.
Protesters, however, remain defiant. “This is the time for change,” said actor Goran Susljik. Businesses, schools, and universities joined the strike, with marches rocking Belgrade, Novi Sad, and Nis.
Prosecutors have charged 13 people over the Novi Sad collapse, but critics say justice is unlikely, as a former minister was released without charges. (TemA)
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