Serbia witnessed large-scale anti-government protests on Saturday as thousands of people, led by university students, gathered in the capital Belgrade demanding early elections. Demonstrators chanted slogans against President Aleksandar Vucic, accusing him of authoritarian rule. The rally, which began peacefully at a central square, later turned tense when a group of young protesters clashed with riot police. Stones and bottles were thrown at police barricades, prompting officers to use pepper spray to disperse the crowd. Authorities reported that 23 people were detained following the confrontation.

The protests come amid growing discontent with Vucic’s government, which has faced criticism for its strict control over the Balkan nation. Demonstrations initially began in November 2024 after a tragic train station accident in northern Serbia sparked demands for accountability. More than a year later, the renewed mass turnout in Belgrade indicates that public frustration remains strong.

The continued unrest suggests that political tensions in Serbia are unlikely to subside soon, as citizens persist in calling for greater transparency and democratic reforms.