Title: Protests in Serbia Against Rising Wave of Violence

Tens of thousands organized a government-opposing demonstration in Belgrade on Saturday, protesting a shooting incident that killed 18 people in two separate occurrences. Opposition parties that organized the protest blame the government led by the Serbian Progressive Party for failing to control media that promotes violence and to confront criminal elements in society. The streets were crowded with protesters who gathered around a complex housing the Serbian broadcasting corporation, demanding the resignation of President Aleksandar Vučić, Interior Minister Bratislav Gašić, and Director of the Serbian Security Agency Aleksandar Vulin. The government denies the opposition's accusations, stating that "the aim of these protests is to gain political advantage." Vučić announced his resignation as the leader of the ruling Serbian Progressive Party at a party conference on Saturday, saying that "a new approach is needed to unify the country," but added that he will remain the head of state.