Serbian Prime Minister Miloš Vučević Resigns Amid Ongoing Protests

Serbian Prime Minister Miloš Vučević officially announced his resignation during an extraordinary press conference held on January 28, citing escalating public unrest and recent incidents in Novi Sad as key factors behind his decision.

According to Serbian state media RTS, Vučević emphasized the importance of easing tensions and called for dialogue to address the divisions within society. His resignation coincides with the departure of Novi Sad Mayor Milan Đurić, who also stepped down following a series of protests that have gripped the country.

The demonstrations, which began in November, were sparked by the collapse of a concrete structure at Novi Sad’s railway station. The incident claimed 15 lives and triggered widespread criticism of government officials for alleged negligence and corruption during the station’s reconstruction. Students from several universities have since organized protests, demanding accountability, transparency in the investigation, and the release of detained demonstrators.

Speaking at the press conference, Vučević stated that his decision was made following a detailed discussion with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić. He added that the resignation was a step toward assuming political responsibility and addressing societal divisions, which he claimed were influenced by external factors.

“These divisions and conflicts appear to be orchestrated. As much as we call for calm, something always seems to reignite tensions. It is as if an invisible hand is driving new incidents,” Vučević remarked.

President Vučić, addressing the situation earlier, had urged for a comprehensive government reshuffle and initiated discussions with the protestors. He also pledged to release documentation related to the railway station’s reconstruction and investigate allegations of corruption. Vučić reiterated his commitment to amnesty for detained protesters and emphasized the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue.

Miloš Vučević has consistently demonstrated his pro-Russian stance through both statements and actions. He strongly supported Serbia’s refusal to impose sanctions on Russia, despite pressure from the European Union. Vučević also advocated for strengthening economic and energy ties with Moscow, including collaborative projects in the natural gas sector.

One notable instance was his statement describing Serbia’s “brotherly relations” with Russia, made during a period of heightened international criticism of Russian actions in Ukraine. Additionally, he backed the idea of maintaining Serbia’s military neutrality, which effectively allowed the country to continue defense cooperation with Russia.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić at the World Economic Forum in Davos to discuss EU integration and security guarantees for lasting peace, reaffirming Ukraine’s stance that “nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.”