Serbia's President Claims Lithium Protests Are Western Attack

BELGRADE, Serbia — President Aleksandar Vučić has accused demonstrators opposing a lithium mining project in Serbia of engaging in Western-backed "hybrid" warfare against his government. Following one of the largest protests in recent years, where tens of thousands rallied in Belgrade against the mining initiative, Vučić vowed to take legal action against protesters who blocked roads and railways. Riot police intervened early Sunday to disperse the crowds, leading to the questioning of 14 individuals by the Interior Minister Ivica Dacic. The protests stem from a government plan to allow lithium mining in a fertile valley, which critics argue would cause irreversible environmental damage. The demonstrations gained momentum after a tentative agreement between Vučić's government and the European Union regarding critical raw materials, which aims to reduce Europe’s reliance on China for lithium battery production. While the government promotes the mining project as a pathway to economic growth, opponents fear it threatens vital water resources and agricultural land. In an effort to address public concerns, Vučić announced that no mining would occur for the next two years while risks are assessed. He also proposed a referendum on the issue, although skepticism remains among environmentalists due to allegations of electoral manipulation by his administration. The situation reflects the broader tensions in Serbia as it navigates its aspirations for EU membership while maintaining close ties with Russia and China.