Massive Protests Erupt Over Controversial Real Estate Development
Hundreds of Serbian protesters have taken to the streets of Belgrade, vowing to prevent a controversial real estate project that would be financed by an investment company linked to President Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner. The demonstrations come just days after Serbian lawmakers passed a special law on Friday that clears the way for the contentious development.
Protesters gathered in front of a military complex that was partially destroyed during the NATO bombing campaign in 1999, holding banners that read: "We do not give army headquarters". The emotionally charged protest highlights the deep historical significance of the site for many Serbians.
Historical Site at Center of Development Dispute
The proposed real estate project would transform the partially destroyed military complex into a new development, though specific details about the scale and nature of the project remain unclear. The location holds profound historical importance, having been damaged during NATO's 1999 bombing campaign during the Kosovo War.
The timing of the parliamentary approval and subsequent protests is particularly significant, occurring on November 11, 2025, a date that coincides with Remembrance Day observances in Canada and other Commonwealth countries. This parallel has drawn additional international attention to the unfolding situation in Serbia's capital.
Political Connections Fuel Public Outcry
The involvement of Jared Kushner's investment company has added a layer of international political significance to the development controversy. As former President Trump's son-in-law and senior advisor, Kushner's business ventures abroad frequently attract scrutiny and public debate.
Serbian lawmakers faced criticism for passing the special law that enables the project to move forward. Protest organizers have indicated they plan to continue their demonstrations and explore legal avenues to block the development, arguing that the site should be preserved for its historical value rather than being transformed into commercial real estate.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides digging in for what could become an extended confrontation over the future of the historic military complex and the role of foreign investment in Serbian urban development.
