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Belgrade Protest Sparks Rail Suspension, Police Tear Gas

5/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

State railway services to Belgrade were suspended on the day of the protest, with officials citing a bomb scare.
Tens of thousands of protesters gathered in Belgrade's Slavija Square on May 23, 2026, and police dispersed clashes with tear gas and stun grenades.
President Aleksandar Vucic posted on Instagram accusing the demonstrators of violence and affirmed that the state would continue to operate according to the law.
Parliament speaker Ana Brnabic said the rally offered nothing new and highlighted that democracy is flourishing, citing a police estimate of 34,300 participants.
Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner Michael O'Flaherty warned that Serbia’s human-rights situation is deteriorating and said he will monitor the protests closely.

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Story summary

State railway services to Belgrade were suspended on the day of the protest, with officials citing a bomb scare.
Tens of thousands of protesters gathered in Belgrade's Slavija Square on May 23, 2026, and police dispersed clashes with tear gas and stun grenades.
President Aleksandar Vucic posted on Instagram accusing the demonstrators of violence and affirmed that the state would continue to operate according to the law.
Parliament speaker Ana Brnabic said the rally offered nothing new and highlighted that democracy is flourishing, citing a police estimate of 34,300 participants.
Council of Europe Human Rights Commissioner Michael O'Flaherty warned that Serbia’s human-rights situation is deteriorating and said he will monitor the protests closely.