Serbia Holds Massive Military Parade Showcasing 10,000 Troops and Multinational Arsenal

Serbia held its largest-ever military parade in Belgrade, showcasing around 10,000 troops, 2,600 pieces of military equipment, and diverse weaponry including Israeli rocket launchers with a 300-kilometer range, Russian tanks, Chinese anti-aircraft systems, and newly ordered French Rafale fighter jets. President Aleksandar Vučić emphasized the parade as a demonstration of Serbia's ability to defend its sovereignty and deter foreign aggression amid its complex geopolitical position, balancing EU membership aspirations with close ties to Russia and China. The event marked the Day of Serbian Unity, Freedom, and the National Flag, commemorating a historic World War I breakthrough, and was attended by domestic leaders and international guests. Opposition leaders criticized the parade as a political tool to bolster Vučić's increasingly authoritarian regime and accused the government of militarizing the armed forces for political gain, with protests occurring nearby but prevented from reaching the parade. The parade also highlighted Serbia's ongoing military modernization and rearmament efforts, reflecting regional security concerns amid a competitive arms buildup. This event underscores Serbia's strategic balancing act between East and West while asserting national pride and military strength.