BELGRADE, Oct. 22, 2025 — A man was seriously wounded on Wednesday after gunfire erupted outside the National Assembly building in central Belgrade, Serbia. The incident occurred near a tented encampment set up by supporters of President Aleksandar Vučić, which has been in place since March amid months of anti-government protests.
Details of the Incident
According to local media and video footage, armed security officers approached a large tent outside the parliament building shortly before shots were fired. A fire broke out moments later, engulfing one of the tents. Emergency services responded quickly, and one man was taken to a medical centre with gunshot wounds. His condition is reported to be serious but stable.
Police detained one suspect, believed to be a Belgrade pensioner, who allegedly fired multiple shots and ignited the fire. The motive remains under investigation, and An Garda Síochána has not yet issued a formal statement.
Political Reaction
President Vučić interrupted a government event to address the situation, calling it a “terrorist act” and praising the swift response of law enforcement. “There can be no justification for violence against our institutions or those who serve them,” he said.
The encampment, colloquially known as “Caciland,” was established by Vučić loyalists as a symbolic buffer against opposition demonstrators. It has become a flashpoint in Serbia’s deepening political divide.
Broader Context
Serbia has faced intensifying protests over the past year, with critics accusing Vučić’s administration of authoritarianism and media suppression. The shooting outside parliament is the most serious act of violence linked to the unrest so far, raising concerns about escalating tensions in the capital.
Security has been tightened around government buildings, and officials have urged calm while investigations continue.
Summary: A man was seriously injured after shots were fired and a fire broke out outside the Serbian parliament in Belgrade. One suspect has been detained, and President Vučić has condemned the incident as a “terrorist act.” The shooting marks a dangerous escalation in Serbia’s ongoing political unrest.
Serbia National Assembly building, Belgrade Picture by Pudelek (Marcin Szala)
Sources: Newsday Newsday; MSN Hindustan Times | MSN; Straits Times The Straits Times; Sky News Sky News; ABC News ABC.
