Thousands of Serbian citizens have taken to the streets of Belgrade to voice their strong opposition against a controversial property development linked to Jared Kushner, former White House aide and son-in-law of Donald Trump.
Historic Site at Centre of Controversy
The protests focus on plans to demolish the former Yugoslav army headquarters, a building that holds deep symbolic significance for many Serbs. The structure was severely damaged during NATO's 1999 bombing campaign in the Kosovo conflict and is widely regarded as both a tribute to those who lost their lives and an important example of Yugoslav-era modernist architecture.
Serbian lawmakers recently passed legislation that would streamline administrative procedures for Kushner's firm, Affinity Global Development, to construct a luxury hotel complex featuring apartments, shops, and offices on the historic site. This follows last year's controversial decision to sign a 99-year lease agreement with the development company.
Government Defends "Crucial Investment"
President Aleksandar Vucic has vigorously defended the project, telling pro-government broadcaster Pink TV that the development represents an investment of at least €650 million (£553 million), which he described as "a huge investment for our country." He emphasised that the arrangement constitutes a long-term lease rather than a sale and predicted substantial economic benefits.
"This will increase the value of everything in Belgrade, further attract tourists … it will be worth over one billion euros right away," Vucic claimed. His government had previously removed the former army compound's protected cultural heritage status in November last year, despite significant public opposition.
Public Outcry and Political Tensions
The rally adds to growing anti-government sentiment that has been building since a railway station roof collapse killed 16 people exactly one year ago. Protesters and opposition politicians argue that the new legislation is unconstitutional, though the governing majority approved it without any amendments.
Teodora Smiljanic, a 48-year-old protester, expressed the frustration felt by many demonstrators: "We came here to raise our voice against the law. By passing this law he [Vucic] is aiming to please Trump and curry favour."
Government supporters maintain that the project is essential for maintaining positive relations with the United States. Meanwhile, Kushner established Affinity Global Development after concluding his role as a White House adviser in 2021. His wider investment holding, Affinity Partners, has not responded to requests for comment from Reuters regarding the Belgrade controversy.
