Serbia is facing one of its most turbulent periods in recent history, with mass protests, government accusations, and shocking claims of illegal crowd control tactics fueling national and international debate. What began as frustration over alleged government corruption has escalated into a full-scale political crisis, with the country’s leadership under intense scrutiny.
Massive Protests Shake Belgrade
In the heart of Serbia, Belgrade has become the epicenter of large-scale anti-government demonstrations. On March 15, 2025, an estimated 100,000 citizens took to the streets in one of the largest protests the country has seen in decades. The movement, led primarily by students and opposition groups, has gained traction across different sectors of society, with farmers, veterans, and trade unions joining the cause.
The protests were initially sparked by the collapse of the Novi Sad railway station roof, which killed 15 people in November 2024. Public outrage over alleged government negligence and corruption intensified, with many blaming officials for poor infrastructure oversight and a lack of accountability.
Sonic Weapons Used Against Protesters?
A new and alarming twist emerged when demonstrators accused Serbian authorities of using sonic weapons to disperse crowds. According to eyewitness reports, during a rally on March 12, protesters suddenly experienced severe ear pain, nausea, dizziness, and disorientation. Some described an intense, high-pitched noise moments before riot police moved in.
Videos and photos from the scene show security forces using unknown handheld devices, which the government claims were anti-drone systems. However, opposition leaders and human rights organizations believe these were sonic crowd control weapons, which are banned under international law for use against civilians.
The Serbian Ministry of the Interior denied the allegations, dismissing them as “foreign propaganda” designed to destabilize the country. Despite this, calls for an independent investigation have intensified, with demands for forensic analysis of the protesters who reported injuries.
Government’s Response: A Warning Against “Foreign Influence”
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has pushed back against the protest movement, warning that the country is being targeted by foreign actors who want to ignite a “color revolution” similar to Ukraine’s 2014 Euromaidan uprising. Vučić vowed to protect Serbia from what he called “Western-backed attempts to overthrow the government”, fueling speculation about growing tensions between Serbia and the European Union.
International reactions have been mixed. The European Parliament has expressed concerns about alleged police brutality and media suppression in Serbia, while Russia has pledged its support for Vučić, reinforcing Serbia’s longstanding ties with Moscow. The United States and NATO have yet to make an official statement, but sources suggest they are monitoring the situation closely.
What Happens Next?
With no clear resolution in sight, Serbia is at a crossroads. If the government fails to ease tensions or address protesters’ demands, the demonstrations could escalate into nationwide strikes, civil unrest, or even calls for early elections. On the other hand, a harsher crackdown by authorities could draw international condemnation and potential sanctions.
Key Questions Moving Forward:
- Will the allegations of sonic weapons be independently investigated?
- Can the government survive mounting political pressure?
- How will international powers—the EU, Russia, and the U.S.—respond?
For now, Serbia remains in a volatile state, with the potential for major political shifts in the weeks ahead. Whether the government can regain public trust or if the protests will force radical change is a question that only time will answer.
