Recently, large-scale protests broke out again in Serbia over lithium mining. According to Agence France-Presse and Reuters, thousands of people took to the streets of the capital city of Belgrade to demand a halt to Rio Tinto's lithium mining program, fearing that it would contaminate land and water sources. The protests are said to be politically motivated and aimed at toppling the government of President Vucic.

President Vucic has indicated that he has received information from the Russian side about large-scale riots and a coup d'état brewing in Serbia, claiming that these activities are supported by several Western intelligence services. He emphasized that citizens need not worry and that the government will take measures to maintain stability in the country.

The lithium mining program, which aims to meet the demand for lithium in Europe and boost Serbia's economy, has been opposed by environmentalists and the public. Protesters have set a deadline for the government to legislate a ban on lithium and boron mining.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Zakharova criticized "evil forces" using environmental issues to try to subvert the Serbian government and destabilize the country. The protests once again highlighted Serbia's difficult choice between economic development and environmental protection.