Panic Erupts at Serbia Protest Over Alleged Sonic Weapon Use

On March 4, 2025, chaos unfolded in the Serbian Parliament when opposition lawmakers threw smoke grenades and tear gas in protest against government policies and in support of ongoing student demonstrations. The protests were ignited by a train station roof collapse in December that resulted in 15 fatalities, marking a significant challenge to the current government led by the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS). During a contentious legislative session where the ruling coalition had approved the agenda, some opposition politicians rushed toward the parliamentary speaker, leading to scuffles with security personnel. Live broadcasts captured the scene as colorful smoke filled the chamber. Speaker Ana Brnabic reported that two lawmakers were injured, with one, Jasmina Obradovic of the SNS party, in critical condition following a stroke. The parliament was scheduled to discuss a law increasing funding for universities, a key demand from students currently engaged in protests. Brnabic asserted that the parliament would persist in its duties to defend Serbia despite the turmoil.

Over the past three months, Serbian students have led mass protests against government corruption following a fatal accident at the Novi Sad train station that claimed 15 lives. The protests, which began in Novi Sad, have grown to attract support from various demographics, including pensioners and farmers. Daily vigils feature 15 minutes of silence at 11:52 AM, the time of the accident, serving as a powerful rebuke to officials, including President Aleksandar Vucic, accused of corruption in public infrastructure projects. Students have organized food resources and democratic gatherings in university spaces, promoting a united front without political affiliations. Many participants express pride in their non-partisan stance, which they believe resonates with broader societal discontent over corruption. Jovana Hromis, a 23-year-old student, emphasized their moral duty to enact change, supported by growing public backing. Despite government claims that the protests are fueled by foreign interference, the movement shows no signs of waning, with tens of thousands of participants in recent demonstrations across Belgrade and Novi Sad. The resignation of Novi Sad's mayor, Milos Vucevic, further highlights the political fallout of these unprecedented student-led movements.

Tens of thousands of protesters rallied in Novi Sad, Serbia, on Saturday, marking the third month since a tragic roof collapse at the city’s railway station resulted in the deaths of 15 individuals. Demonstrators blocked all three bridges leading into the city in a show of solidarity with the victims and a call for accountability from the government, which they blame for negligence and corruption, according to local activist Dejan Bagarić. The protests are described as the largest in Serbia's history, fueled by rising discontent with President Aleksandar Vučić's administration. Critics allege that the reconstruction of the railway station, carried out by a Chinese state consortium, ignored essential safety regulations, with allegations of a government cover-up emerging after the disaster. Čedomir Stojković, a prominent human rights lawyer, emphasized the need for transparency and justice. The demonstrations, which have expanded to over 100 towns nationwide, reflect broader frustrations among Serbian youth regarding corruption and the authoritarian tendencies of Vučić's rule. Opposition leader Srđan Milivojević noted that the students have taken control of the protest momentum, asserting that they will continue until their demands for reform are met.