Fact Check: Thousands Block Streets in Serbia Demanding Release of Jailed Protesters
What We Know
On June 28, 2025, thousands of protesters gathered in Serbia's capital, Belgrade, demanding early parliamentary elections and the release of detained protesters. The demonstrations were part of ongoing anti-government protests that have persisted for nearly eight months, primarily led by university students. These protests have been fueled by allegations of government corruption and negligence, particularly following a tragic incident where a collapsed rail station canopy resulted in 16 fatalities (AP News).
Following the protests, on June 29, 2025, demonstrators set up street blockades across various locations in Belgrade, including a significant bridge over the Sava River. Reports indicated that protesters used metal fences and garbage containers to create these blockades, expressing their anger over the arrests of anti-government protesters from the previous day (ABC News). The protests also spread to other cities, including Novi Sad, where demonstrators targeted the offices of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party with eggs (Al Jazeera).
Analysis
The claim that "thousands block streets in Serbia demanding release of jailed protesters" is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The Associated Press reported that the protests involved tens of thousands of participants who filled central areas of Belgrade, chanting demands for elections and expressing their discontent with the government (AP News). An independent monitoring group estimated that around 140,000 people attended the rally, indicating significant public engagement in the protests (AP News).
The subsequent blockades on June 29 were also widely reported, with various news outlets confirming that protesters set up barriers and engaged in acts of civil disobedience in response to the arrests of their peers (ABC News, Euronews). The protests were characterized by clashes with police, resulting in injuries on both sides and numerous arrests, which further fueled public outrage and mobilization (Al Jazeera).
The sources used in this analysis are credible and reputable news organizations, which provide a balanced view of the events. The Associated Press is known for its journalistic integrity, while ABC News and Al Jazeera also maintain high standards of reporting. These outlets have covered the protests extensively, providing context about the political climate in Serbia and the motivations behind the protests.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "thousands block streets in Serbia demanding release of jailed protesters" is accurate. The evidence from multiple reliable sources confirms that significant numbers of protesters engaged in civil disobedience following the arrests of their peers, demonstrating widespread discontent with the current government and its handling of protests.
