Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic Resigns Amid Protests and Early Elections
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic resigned after nine years, paving the way for early elections. His departure follows major anti-government protests and a massive military procurement partnership with Israel.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced his resignation on Sunday after more than nine years in office, concluding a period during which he was the most dominant figure in Serbian politics. Vucic, who previously served as prime minister, has been in power since 2014. His resignation paves the way for early presidential elections, and Vucic has already announced that he will run for prime minister in the parliamentary elections scheduled for October 25.
The Disaster That Sparked Anti-Government Protests
Vucic steps down following nearly two years of widespread anti-government protests. The unrest began after the railway station disaster in Novi Sad in November 2024, where 16 people were killed when a concrete roof collapsed. Students led the demonstrations, later joined by teachers, farmers, and other groups. Protesters turned the tragedy into a symbol of government corruption, lack of transparency, and accountability.
"We demand responsibility and an end to corruption that costs lives," chanted protesters during massive rallies that drew over 100,000 people to Belgrade in March 2025, leading to frequent clashes with police.
Balancing Between Europe, Russia, and Defense Partnerships
Vucic's tenure was also marked by recurring tensions in the Balkans and a complex foreign policy balancing act. Serbia officially aspires to join the European Union and cooperates with NATO, while simultaneously maintaining close ties with Russia and China. Vucic faced Western criticism after visiting Moscow in May 2025 to meet with Vladimir Putin. Amidst these geopolitical maneuvers, Israel has emerged in recent years as a significant defense partner for Belgrade.
According to reports, Serbia acquired PULS rocket artillery systems and Hermes drones from Elbit Systems in early 2025 in a $335 million deal, followed later that year by additional purchases including long-term missiles and electronic warfare systems totaling around $1.6 billion. Vucic also confirmed that Serbia exports ammunition and military equipment to Israel, alongside defense procurements from France, China, and other nations.
