Vucic Opponents, Supporters Rally Amid Rising Tensions in Serbia

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic held a rally in Belgrade amid ongoing protests against his government, which have persisted since the November rail station collapse that killed 16 people. Demonstrators, predominantly students, accuse Vucic of corruption and mismanagement, leading to one of the largest protest movements in Serbia's recent history. Vucic, who plans to launch a new political movement, claims these protests threaten national stability and are fueled by foreign interference, labeling the student activists as 'terrorists.' His rally featured thousands of supporters, including a notable appearance by Bosnian Serb leader Milorad Dodik, and was marked by nationalistic displays such as the unveiling of the largest Serbian flag in history. Authorities are bracing for counter-protests, particularly in regions with significant Muslim populations, as tensions continue to escalate. Vucic's administration has intensified crackdowns on dissent, further complicating the political landscape in Serbia.