Serbia protesters continue rallies after president promises to resign

Thousands of demonstrators filled the streets of Kraljevo on Sunday, maintaining pressure on the government after President Aleksandar Vucic announced he would step down within weeks. Vucic made the announcement at a rally in Belgrade on Saturday. Under Serbian law he cannot run for another presidential term, yet many protesters expect him to move into the prime minister's post and retain influence.

Background to the protests The demonstrations began after a railway-station roof collapsed in Novi Sad in late 2024, killing 16 people. Demonstrators link the collapse to corruption and poor oversight of state construction projects. Vucic has denied any wrongdoing and described the protesters as foreign agents.

Police have detained hundreds during months of demonstrations, prompting criticism from the European Union over alleged excessive force and improper detentions. Vucic set no date for his departure or for new elections. His party has governed for 14 years and he predicted it would win the next vote by a larger margin.