Government Party Offices Set on Fire: Serbia in Flames

Kokcha News Agency – In Serbia, ongoing protests against President Aleksandar Vučić have turned violent, with the offices of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) being set ablaze. In Valjevo, a masked group attacked and set fire to empty SNS buildings, prompting police to respond with stun grenades and tear gas, according to reports.

The BBC also reported that protesters smashed the windows of the headquarters of the Serbian Radical Party, a coalition partner of the SNS. Meanwhile, Serbia’s Interior Ministry has denied allegations of police brutality in the capital, Belgrade, and Novi Sad.

The protests began after Russia announced its support for Vučić, a pro-Moscow leader. However, the demonstrations have been fueled by broader discontent, particularly following the collapse of a train station in Novi Sad last November, which killed eight people.

Protesters are demanding early elections and the end of Vučić’s 12-year rule.

“We Will Punish the Bullies”
European Commissioner for Human Rights Michael O’Flaherty recently expressed concerns about the disproportionate use of force by Serbian police and called on authorities to stop arbitrary arrests and de-escalate the situation.

President Vučić responded to the clashes on Instagram, stating, “Violence is the ultimate expression of weakness,” and vowed to “punish the bullies.”