In a dramatic showdown on Tuesday, opposition deputies stormed the Serbian parliament with smoke grenades and tear gas during a heated legislative session.
The disturbance unfolded as the ruling coalition, led by the Serbian Progressive Party (SNS), proceeded with its planned agenda.
Live broadcasts captured the chaotic scenes as opposition politicians abruptly abandoned their seats and surged toward parliamentary speaker Ana Brnabic, clashing with security personnel. Amid the melee, demonstrators hurled smoke grenades and tear gas, filling parts of the chamber with striking black and pink clouds.
The session, which was set to address several key issues, including the adoption of a law to boost funding for universities, a long-standing demand of students who have staged protests and blockades since December became the stage for a broader expression of dissent.
The unrest comes against the backdrop of demonstrations that were initially ignited by a tragic train station roof collapse four months ago, which claimed the lives of 15 people, and have since evolved into the most formidable challenge yet for the Serbian government.
Speaker Brnabic confirmed that three lawmakers sustained injuries during the clashes. Among those affected was Jasmina Obradovic of the SNS party, who suffered a stroke and is currently in critical condition. Despite the turmoil, Brnabic maintained that the legislative body would press on, saying, “The parliament will continue to work and to defend Serbia.”
Adding to the tensions, the session was also scheduled to acknowledge the resignation of Prime Minister Milos Vucevic. However, other items on the ruling coalition’s agenda further fueled the opposition’s ire, leading to the explosive confrontation witnessed on Tuesday.