First protest against the government of Rumen Radev

On June 28, 2026, students in Serbia gathered on Ploštad na srpskim vojnicima (Square of Serbian Warriors) in Kraljevo to commemorate Vidovdan, a significant historical day marking the Battle of Kosovo in 1389. The event was marked by large crowds, banners, and chants echoing the slogan "Students win," which has become a central message of recent protests against the government. Participants arrived from various parts of the country, some traveling long distances on foot, demonstrating their commitment to the cause.

The protest began earlier than scheduled, with groups arriving as early as 16:30. Many participants had traveled hundreds of kilometers, including individuals who ran from cities such as Kragujevac and Čačak. These demonstrators were visibly exhausted but determined, carrying torches in the colors of the Serbian flag. One participant, Nikola Kljajić from Kruševac, shared his motivation, emphasizing his desire for his daughter's future in Serbia rather than abroad. His emotional testimony highlighted the personal stakes behind the political movement.

Participants also included Ivana Đorđić, a student from Belgrade who walked 63 kilometers from Kragujevac to Kraljevo. Despite the physical challenges, she described the journey as a collective effort fueled by camaraderie, music, and shared experiences. Unlike typical protest anthems, the music played during the march featured traditional motifs, reflecting a broader cultural identity.

Geoinformatics engineer Zoran Đajić, known for attending similar gatherings, emphasized the significance of Kraljevo in the overall narrative. He noted that the local opposition front remained consistent throughout the struggle, unlike other regions where support wavered. Đajić suggested that the government was desperately trying to maintain its position, but he believed the students would ultimately succeed in bringing about change. He added that many members of the ruling parties, disillusioned with the current administration, might vote for the student-led list in upcoming elections.

As the event progressed, the square filled with thousands of people under the shadow of the evening sun. The program began with the national anthem performed by operatic singer Bojana Pejković. Speeches followed, addressing historical significance, social conditions, responsibilities, and the need for change. Among the speakers were veterans, lawyers, students, and professors. Jelena Pavlovic, an attorney representing the movement "Nas glas od naroda" (Our Voice from the People), called on the authorities to face their responsibility, citing the betrayal of Kosovo and Metohija as a symbol of national identity and suffering.

After two hours and fifteen minutes of speeches, cheers, and musical performances, the crowd gradually dispersed. The atmosphere remained charged, with the main message of the demonstration still resonating: "Students win."

In Sofia, Bulgaria, a separate protest took place against the government led by Rumen Radev. Thousands of citizens took to the streets expressing dissatisfaction with the current administration’s policies, particularly focusing on the proposed state budget and the direction in which the country seems to be heading. Organizers criticized Prime Minister Radev, comparing him to both Hungarian leader Viktor Orbán and former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych, suggesting his leadership could lead to war if not addressed promptly.

One of the organizers, journalist Manol Glishev, expressed satisfaction with the turnout, estimating between 1,000 and 2,000 participants despite the lack of financial backing and formal organization. He announced plans for another protest the following week, expecting even greater participation. Artist Manol Petrov viewed these demonstrations as the first serious sign of organized opposition, noting that the event occurred without media support and during summer vacation, yet still drew significant attention.

Gallery owner Toros Torosyan highlighted the size of the protest as indicative of widespread public discontent. Political scientist Ognyan Minchev stated that these protests represent the only democratic mechanism available to citizens opposing the current government. He warned that the ruling party, having gained a comfortable majority, could cause substantial damage to the economy, historical memory, and European orientation of Bulgaria.

Christina Kalamova from Sofia was surprised by the scale of the protest, especially given the absence of political parties and the timing during the summer season. She noted that the lack of party flags and leaders, combined with the presence of ordinary citizens waving Bulgarian and European flags, indicated a growing frustration among the populace. This sentiment was further amplified by controversial proposals in the 2026 budget, which served as an additional motive for the mass demonstration.

Organizers have already announced plans to continue the protests in the coming period, anticipating increased public support. Both in Serbia and Bulgaria, these demonstrations reflect deepening societal tensions and a demand for accountability and change from the respective governments.