Flares and Fury: Serbia's Protests Turn Violent

Violent clashes erupted between police and protesters in Serbia, sparked by alleged police brutality and widespread dissatisfaction with the government. Demonstrations, initially peaceful, turned violent after a police beating video. Protesters accuse President Vucic of corruption and demand his resignation, while he promises a crackdown on dissent.

In Serbia, tensions have boiled over as angry protesters clashed with police, marking a violent escalation in the ongoing demonstrations across the Balkan nation. In Valjevo, protesters targeted the offices of President Aleksandar Vucic's ruling Serbian Progressive Party, drawing heavy police response.

The unrest, aimed at highlighting alleged police brutality, has spread to the capital Belgrade where confrontations with law enforcement have intensified. The protests, which began after a fatal train station incident, have garnered mass public support and prompted international calls for restraint.

Despite the turmoil, President Vucic has dismissed calls for early elections, instead blaming foreign influence and threatening a crackdown. His administration faces accusations of enabling corruption and organized crime as Serbia navigates a contentious path toward EU membership.

(With inputs from agencies.)