Hundreds of Serbian citizens have taken to the streets of Belgrade, vowing to prevent a massive real estate development project linked to Jared Kushner, the former White House senior advisor and son-in-law of ex-US President Donald Trump. The controversial $500 million project plans to transform the site of former Yugoslav army headquarters that was bombed by NATO in 1999.
The Controversial Belgrade Waterfront Project
Protesters gathered in central Belgrade on Tuesday, expressing strong opposition to the planned real estate development by Kushner's Affinity Partners investment firm. The project targets the location of the former General Staff building, which was destroyed during NATO's 78-day bombing campaign against Yugoslavia in 1999. This site holds significant historical and emotional value for many Serbians.
The demonstration saw participants carrying banners with messages like "We won't give you Belgrade" and "Stop the occupation", clearly indicating their determination to block the project. Organizers have promised to continue their protests until the development plans are completely abandoned.
Political Connections and Public Outcry
The real estate deal has raised eyebrows due to Kushner's political connections and the timing of the agreement. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic confirmed in April that Kushner's Affinity Partners had secured a 99-year lease on the strategically important location. The project envisions constructing a luxurious hotel, residential apartments, and retail spaces on the Belgrade waterfront.
What makes this situation particularly sensitive is that the agreement was finalized just months after Kushner left his White House position in 2021. Critics have questioned the ethics and transparency of the deal, especially given Kushner's previous role in government and his relationship with Trump.
Historical Significance and Public Sentiment
The proposed development site carries deep historical significance for Serbia. The former Yugoslav army headquarters building was deliberately targeted during NATO's bombing campaign, which was launched to stop Belgrade's violent crackdown on ethnic Albanian separatists in Kosovo. Many Serbians view the destroyed building as a symbol of national resilience and sovereignty.
Protest organizers argue that allowing a project linked to Trump's family on this particular site would be disrespectful to Serbia's history and the memories of those affected by the 1999 bombing. The location's transformation into a luxury commercial development has been described by some activists as "erasing national memory for profit."
This protest movement reflects growing concerns about foreign investment in strategic locations across Serbia. Demonstrators have emphasized that their opposition isn't just about this single project but about broader issues of transparency in government dealings and protection of national heritage sites.
The Serbian government has defended the project, highlighting the economic benefits and job creation potential. However, protesters remain unconvinced, demanding full disclosure of the agreement terms and proper public consultation before any development proceeds.
