Sat Mar 15 11:54:24 UTC 2025: ## Massive Anti-Government Rally Rocks Belgrade
**BELGRADE, SERBIA** – Tens of thousands of protesters, including students from across Serbia, converged on Belgrade on Saturday, March 15, 2025, in a massive demonstration against President Aleksandar Vucic and his government. The rally, the culmination of months of anti-corruption protests, represents the most significant challenge to Vucic’s 13-year rule.
The protests, initially sparked by the November 2024 collapse of a train station roof in Novi Sad that killed 15 people, have gained widespread support due to public anger over alleged government corruption and negligence. Students have been at the forefront of the movement, organizing marches and rallies across the country.
The atmosphere in Belgrade was tense. Police reported arresting a man who rammed his car into protesters, injuring three. Vucic, who has accused Western intelligence agencies of orchestrating the protests, preemptively cancelled city transport and warned of potential unrest, claiming that some protesters were planning a coup. His supporters, including former paramilitary members and soccer hooligans, gathered near his headquarters, raising fears of clashes.
Despite the heightened tension, Friday evening saw a joyous welcome for students arriving in Belgrade from across Serbia. Large crowds assembled early Saturday morning to participate in the demonstration, which was marked by a cacophony of whistles and vuvuzelas. Authorities reported detaining 13 individuals overnight, including six opposition activists allegedly planning to incite unrest.
The protests highlight growing disillusionment with the Serbian government and a loss of faith in state institutions. While previous student-led rallies have been peaceful, Saturday’s demonstration underscores the depth of public discontent with Vucic’s leadership.
First Piper 