Thousands of Serbian citizens gathered in solemn remembrance on Wednesday, marking a quarter-century since one of the most tragic incidents of the 1999 NATO bombing campaign. The massive rally commemorated the 16 civilians who lost their lives when NATO missiles struck a passenger train at the Grdelica railway station.
The emotional gathering saw participants carrying Serbian flags and banners bearing the names of the victims, creating a sea of national colors and personal tributes. Many family members of those killed in the devastating attack joined the memorial, their grief still palpable after 25 years.
A Nation Remembers
The anniversary comes amid ongoing tensions between Serbia and Kosovo, with Serbian officials using the occasion to reinforce their stance on Kosovo's independence. President Aleksandar Vučić addressed the crowd, emphasizing that Serbia "will not give up the fight for Kosovo and Metohija" despite international pressure.
Survivors and relatives of victims shared heartbreaking accounts of the April 12, 1999 incident, when two NATO missiles hit a passenger train traveling from Belgrade to Thessaloniki. The attack occurred during the 78-day NATO bombing campaign aimed at forcing Serbian forces to withdraw from Kosovo.
Historical Context and Ongoing Tensions
The memorial event underscores the lasting impact of the Balkan conflicts and the complex relationship between Serbia and Western powers. While NATO maintained the bombing was intended to stop ethnic cleansing and violence against Albanian civilians in Kosovo, many Serbians view the campaign as an unjustified aggression that caused numerous civilian casualties.
Current geopolitical tensions added significance to this year's anniversary, with Serbia maintaining close ties with Russia while pursuing European Union membership. The ceremony served as both a remembrance of past tragedy and a statement about current political realities in the Balkan region.
