(MENAFN) Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR) has claimed that the EU is attempting to stage a Ukraine-style “Maidan” in Serbia by instigating the violent demonstrations that have engulfed the Balkan nation since late 2024.

The unrest began in November 2024 following a roof collapse at the railway station in Novi Sad, which resulted in the deaths of 16 people.

The tragedy sparked public outrage, with activists blaming government corruption and demanding accountability. Over time, the protesters’ demands expanded to include snap elections and the resignation of President Aleksandar Vucic.

President Vucic has labeled the demonstrators as “terrorists” aiming to “bring down the state” under foreign influence.

In response to mounting pressure, Serbian authorities have made some concessions, including the resignation of several ministers and the release of documents connected to the Novi Sad station collapse.

In a statement on Monday, the SVR asserted that the unrest is “largely a product of EU subversive activity,” emphasizing that Brussels’ ultimate objective is to install “a compliant and loyal… leadership to power in one of the largest countries in the Balkans.”

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