The blockade organizers, who have largely dropped their initial demands regarding the removal of the canopy in Novi Sad—previously cited as the key reason for their six-month-long protests—have now escalated their stance. Their latest demand calls for the release of a student group from Novi Sad accused of plotting a coup and attempting to incite civil war.
The protesters, who have consistently disrupted daily life for citizens, appear to be moving closer to what observers describe as their “endgame.” Authorities have labeled the detained students as a “terrorist group,” alleging they were preparing to overthrow the government.
This shift in demands has drawn sharp criticism from officials, who argue that the protesters are now openly supporting destabilization efforts. The public reaction remains divided, with some viewing the students as political prisoners and others condemning them as threats to national security.
The government has yet to formally respond to the new demand, but security forces remain on high alert. Analysts suggest this development could mark a dangerous turning point in the ongoing political crisis.