Opposition criticizes Serbia's military parade as politicization of armed forces

On September 20, 2025, Serbia hosted a significant military parade in the capital city, Belgrade, showcasing an array of military assets including tanks, jeeps, and approximately 10,000 personnel. The event was framed as a celebration of the Day of Serbian Unity, Freedom, and the National Flag, under the bright sunny sky. To add to the spectacle, Russian-made MiG-29 fighter jets flew alongside French-produced Rafale jets, signaling Serbia's ongoing strategy of forging relationships with both Russia and Western nations despite regional tensions. Although the parade aimed to express national pride, it faced backlash from opposition groups who viewed it as a politicization of the military forces. They stated that the current government has hollowed out the army's integrity, further emphasizing the underlying political tensions within the country. In response to the parade, protests occurred in the city, with demonstrators demanding early elections and a crackdown on government corruption, which have been longstanding issues fueled by earlier government actions, including a tragic incident in Novi Sad that resulted in tragic casualties. The government and protesters clashed on several fronts, with police taking action to prevent demonstrators from approaching the parade, although most of the protests remained peaceful. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic declared the event a source of national pride while further advocating for the need for Serbia to bolster its military capabilities amidst burgeoning regional arms buildups. He highlighted an increased annual defense expenditure aimed at maintaining Serbia's military readiness as part of a comprehensive foreign policy approach that also seeks to strengthen ties with China, alongside traditional ally Russia. This balancing act reflects Serbia's strategic positioning in a politically complex region marked by historical rivalries, and the continued dual approach to its foreign relations may further influence regional dynamics and Serbia's future security policies.