A large-scale protest continues in Belgrade against plans for lithium mining in Serbia. Thousands of participants took to the main streets of the capital, expressing their disagreement with the projects for the development of deposits of this strategically important mineral. Protesters blocked the Budapest-Thessaloniki international highway, stopping traffic in both directions, as well as Belgrade's central railway station, leading to the suspension of both local and international train services.

The action takes place under the slogan “There will be no mine”, and is organized by environmental movements who fear for the ecological future of Serbia. The protests are directed against the plans of the mining and metallurgical company Rio Tinto, which previously announced its readiness to invest $2,4 billion in the mining and production of lithium in the country. The company planned to develop a deposit near the city of Loznica, where it is estimated that up to 10% of the world's lithium reserves are located.

Lithium is a key component for the production of batteries, making it highly sought after in the global market, especially in the context of the global transition to environmentally friendly technologies. However, in Serbia, plans to mine lithium have met with significant opposition from the public and environmental activists, who fear devastating consequences for the environment.

Interest in the topic of protests is fueled by recent Statements Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, who reported information received from Russia about the preparation of a coup in the country. This statement increased tensions in society and added political overtones to the ongoing protests.