In a televised address from the Presidency, Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić emphasized that transitional governments will not occur without elections.

He stated his refusal to yield to ultimatums from protesters, asserting that the demands made by students were not the true objective, but rather part of a broader movement he characterized as a 'colored revolution' in Serbia.

President Vučić detailed the government's responses to four student demands, calling them sincere but ultimately insufficient for addressing the underlying motives behind the protests.

Vučić highlighted the gravity of a tragic accident in Novi Sad on November 1, which claimed 15 lives, declaring that it impacted the nation profoundly.

He called for swift yet accountable measures regarding criminal, political, and moral responsibilities, asserting that the state acted accordingly.

Following the tragedy, Serbia faced vandalism and violent protests, including attempts to storm Novi Sad's City Hall.

Vučić expressed concern over the escalation from advocacy for justice to what he considers radical behavior, noting a significant departure from acceptable forms of peaceful demonstration to instances of violence, including attacks against journalists.

The President criticized incomplete legal processes, stating that public order was being undermined and noted that people's constitutional rights were being obstructed in 150 municipalities.

He underscored the necessity for lawfulness, indicating that citizens should not be deprived of their rights due to unlawful assemblies.

Vučić firmly stated that there will be no transitional governments during his presidency.

In facing protests, he asserted that the state would ensure safety and detain those inciting unrest, emphasizing the need for a secure environment for public gatherings.

He characterized certain protests as illegal, yet expressed a commitment to ensuring their peaceful conduct, despite acknowledging the associated risks of violence.

He recounted previous engagements with opposition leaders, which he described as being met with hostility and resistance to dialogue.

He indicated that proposals for elections and referenda had been dismissed by opposition figures, prompting a greater commitment to maintaining order in the face of escalating tensions.

Also addressed were claims that external forces sought the destabilization of Serbia, particularly in light of conflicts involving neighboring political entities.

Vučić expressed concerns regarding international policies perceived as threatening to Serbia's integrity, emphasizing a commitment to upholding the principles of the Dayton Agreement concerning the territorial organization of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In addition to reinforcing state sovereignty, Vučić reiterated calls for peace among citizens and the government’s commitment to safeguarding national interests, as Serbia navigates the pressures of both domestic unrest and international challenges.