A violent blockade of Serbia’s public media headquarters has sparked accusations of foreign interference as President Aleksandar Vučić warns of a coordinated effort to destabilize the country.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Tensions continue to escalate in Belgrade as protesters maintain a blockade of the Serbian public television headquarters, marking a significant confrontation over press freedom and political control. The demonstration, which began on Monday evening, has resulted in a serious attack on a police officer and heightened concerns over what Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić calls a foreign-financed attempt to undermine Serbia’s sovereignty.
The protesters have sealed off two entrances of the Radio Television of Serbia (RTS) building in Belgrade, vowing to keep their demonstration going until at least 9 p.m. on Tuesday. RTS issued a statement condemning the blockade, stating that the action directly contradicts protesters’ earlier claims of supporting free media. Despite the obstruction, the broadcaster continues to air its scheduled programming.
Tensions Escalate, Police Officer Injured
While the situation remained largely calm Tuesday morning, chants of “No one is tired, RTS is under blockade!” echoed from the gathered demonstrators. However, the previous evening saw a violent clash when plainclothes individuals attacked police officers attempting to pass through the protest line. According to Serbian daily Blic, police fought back, and the Interior Ministry later confirmed that one officer sustained serious injuries.
Vučić, who visited the wounded officer, condemned the violence and vowed to hold those responsible accountable. In a social media post, he stated, “The perpetrators of violence think they have a free hand. This is not the case. They will be held accountable for any violence they commit. So much for peaceful protesters.”
Meanwhile, Minister of Information and Telecommunications Dejan Risztisz has called for dialogue between the government and the protesters. The Interior Ministry has stated that it will not intervene unless demonstrators attempt to storm state institutions or escalate attacks on law enforcement.
Allegations of Foreign Interference
As unrest unfolds, Vučić has claimed that the protests are part of a larger “Color Revolution”—a term used to describe foreign-backed uprisings aimed at toppling governments. He alleged that billions of euros have been funneled into the movement to weaken Serbia’s stance on Kosovo and the Bosnian Serb Republic.
“I repeat once again. We will preserve the freedom, independence, and sovereignty of Serbia,” Vučić declared. “We will protect Kosovo and Metohija as part of Serbia, and we will not allow you to destroy the Republika Srpska of Bosnia, as you have planned.”
Future of the Protests Uncertain
As Serbia faces mounting political tensions, the outcome of the blockade remains uncertain. While Vučić and government officials have warned against further unrest, the protesters appear determined to maintain pressure. With allegations of foreign influence, media suppression, and political resistance dominating the discourse, the situation in Belgrade is likely to remain volatile in the coming days.
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