Protests continue in Belgrade as Serbian citizens express dissatisfaction with the results of the parliamentary and local elections held on December 17, where Aleksandar Vucic’s party emerged victorious, according to the Central Election Commission. Protesters allege widespread fraud, leading to clashes with the police on December 24, resulting in injuries and numerous arrests. On December 25, hundreds of students blocked streets near the Serbian Ministry of State and Local Self-Government.
The opposition emphasizes the peaceful nature of their protests and urges supporters to avoid provocations. However, authorities warn against a Serbian Maidan and have taken measures to prevent further unrest.
Adding to the tension, Moscow accuses the West of instigating turmoil in the Balkans and implementing a Serbian version of the Maidan. The Serbian opposition counters, alleging that Moscow seeks to impose an authoritarian and repressive model.
The use of the term “Maidan” has become contentious, with both authorities and the opposition employing it. Experts emphasize the need to distinguish between the Ukrainian Maidans of 2004 and 2014 to better understand the context of the ongoing protests.
