BELGRADE — Serbia’s parliament plunged into chaos on Tuesday as opposition lawmakers clashed with security personnel, hurled smoke grenades, and disrupted a legislative session with vuvuzelas.
The turmoil unfolded shortly after the ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) approved the parliamentary agenda, igniting a series of confrontations that left two lawmakers injured.
Thick smoke quickly filled the chamber, making it difficult to see and forcing Assembly President Ana Brnabić to struggle through her speech.
The dramatic scenes were broadcast live, showing opposition deputies storming toward the speaker’s podium and engaging in physical altercations with security guards.
Other opposition members ignited smoke bombs, releasing clouds of black and pink smoke that engulfed the hall.
The chaotic session is the latest escalation in a wave of protests that have gripped Serbia in recent months. The unrest was initially triggered by the collapse of a train station roof in Novi Sad four months ago, which killed 15 people.
What began as demands for accountability has evolved into one of the most significant challenges to the government in recent years, with ongoing student protests and widespread public dissatisfaction.
Brnabić confirmed that two lawmakers were injured during the incident. Jasmina Obradović, a member of the ruling SNS, reportedly suffered a stroke amid the chaos and remains in critical condition. Despite the disruptions, Brnabić vowed that parliament would continue its work to defend Serbia’s institutions.
Tuesday’s session was set to approve an increase in university funding — a key demand of students who have been blocking faculties since December. Parliament was also expected to formally acknowledge the resignation of Prime Minister Miloš Vučević.
However, additional items introduced by the ruling coalition sparked outrage among opposition lawmakers, escalating tensions further.
The opposition has accused the government of using procedural tactics to push through controversial measures without proper debate.
In contrast, SNS leaders condemned the opposition’s actions as an attack on democratic institutions. “We will not allow violence to dictate the agenda of our parliament,” Brnabić declared.
Adding to the controversy, Serbian media have speculated that the violent scenes may have been linked to external influences.
Several reports suggested that the chaos was orchestrated in line with a scenario allegedly devised by Kosovo’s Prime Minister Albin Kurti, a claim that has not been substantiated.
The SNS has accused opposition parties of acting as proxies for foreign interests, a charge they vehemently deny.
The ongoing protests and the eruption of violence in parliament underscore the growing political crisis facing Serbia.
With tensions escalating both on the streets and within the legislature, analysts warn that the government’s ability to restore order and address public grievances will be crucial in the coming weeks.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members