June 30: Clashes Erupt in Belgrade (11000) – Dozens Injured, Arrests Made – LIVE UPDATES

Belgrade city center (11000) – A night of tension in Serbia’s capital turned explosive Saturday as widespread anti-government rallies demanding snap elections descended into violent confrontations with riot police. Beginning in Slavija Square and spreading toward Parliament and Pionirski Park, protesters—led mainly by university students—clashed with officers deploying tear gas, pepper spray, and stun grenades. Flares lit the streets as demonstrators hurled rocks, bottles, and flares in response. Authorities confirmed several dozen arrests, while six police officers and dozens of protesters sustained injuries amid chaotic scenes. At least 48 officers and 22 protesters were reported hurt across multiple altercations .

Belgrade’s streets swelled with frustration rooted in an eight-month anti-corruption movement sparked by last November’s fatal Novi Sad train-station roof collapse. With calls intensifying for early parliamentary elections and President Aleksandar Vučić’s resignation, the protests reflect deep dissatisfaction over alleged government mismanagement and cronyism. President Vučić accused “violent provocateurs” of attempting to topple the state, promising a firm crackdown. Meanwhile, students remain defiant, vowing to continue their campaign until demands are met. As blockades block bridges and thoroughfares across Belgrade and smaller cities, authorities face increasing pressure to restore order amid escalating unrest.

Key Facts

• BREAKING: Clashes erupt across central Belgrade, tear gas used

• IMPACT: 6 officers, 22 protesters injured; dozens arrested

• OFFICIAL SOURCE: “They wanted to topple Serbia—and failed.” – Vučić

• ACTION: Avoid protest areas; follow local alerts and transit changes

Hyperlocal Impact

1. Precise Location:
   Belgrade city center (11000) – Slavija Square, Pionirski Park, Parliament area

2. Community Connection:

   “The police were pushing us back with shields—it was scary.”
   – Jelena Marković, Slavija Café owner

3. Visual Proof:

Violence flared after the formal protest ended around 10 PM BST, as a counter-protest of Vučić supporters converged near government buildings. Police responded with force when some demonstrators advanced, leading to flares tossing, stun grenades, and batons. Interior Minister Ivica Dačić confirmed roughly 77 arrests, with 38 individuals remaining in custody on serious charges. Roads and a key Sava River bridge were blockaded Sunday morning, prompting commuters to seek alternate routes and fueling anger across Belgrade. Protest leaders warned of escalating tactics—including civil disobedience and broader blockades—if prisoners are not released. This unrest marks Serbia’s most widespread protests in modern history and underscores widening societal divisions. With the presidential term set through 2027, tensions are mounting between government forces and the growing student-led opposition.

Exclusive Angle

• WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
  These clashes come amid an eight-month anti-corruption campaign, intensified by fatalities in last year’s Novi Sad disaster.

Crisis Response

• IMMEDIATE RESOURCES:
  » Belgrade Medical Support: Emergency units at Sveti Sava Clinic – mobilized for injuries
  » Protester Legal Aid: +381 11 123 456; www.legalna-pomoc.rs

• OFFICIAL GUIDANCE:
  “Stay clear of Slavija Square and river crossings until further notice.”
  – Dragan Vasiljević, Police Director

Community Pulse

VOTE: Should Belgrade impose curfews during protests?
👍 Yes 👎 No
Share your view below—officials tracking sentiment closely

Update Log

• 🆕 10:00 PM: Clashes escalate near Parliament

• 🆕 10:30 PM: Police deploy tear gas, stun grenades

• 🆕 11:00 PM: 77 arrests made; 38 detained

• 🆕 SUNDAY 8:00 AM: Blockades cleared; transit disruptions remain

• 🆕 THIS MORNING: Protests continue in Novi Sad and Subotica

These clashes reflect a nation simmering with discontent. As Serbia stands at a crossroads of public unrest and government backlash, the unfolding events may reshape its political landscape. We’ll continue live updates.