Serbia's parliament has passed a law which paves the way for a controversial property development led by US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner in the capital Belgrade.
His firm Affinity Partners has sought to build a luxury hotel and apartment complex on the site of the former Yugoslav Army headquarters.
The ruined building, which was bombed by NATO forces in 1999 during its intervention to stop Serbia's military campaign in Kosovo, has symbolic value to some who view it as a memorial and symbol of ongoing opposition to the military alliance.
Serbia's President Aleksandar Vucic, who has pursued close ties with Trump, backed the plans despite protests and legal challenges.
Last year, the Serbian government stripped the building of its protected status and agreed a 99-year lease with Kushner's firm, setting out plans for a $500m development.
This decision triggered demonstrations and led to an investigation into whether a Serbian official had forged documentation during the status change.
In a previous conversation, President Vucic defended the proposal, stating it was vital to “overcome the burden from 1999” and expressed his commitment to building better relations with the US.
Vucic's party, having a majority in parliament, moved to push through the vote to clear the site amidst a backdrop of claimed constitutional violations and opposition outcry, labeling it a “crime”.
Critiques from opposition leaders, including Aleksandar Jovanovic, highlighted fears that the landmark would give way to “casinos and Jacuzzis”, underlining a broader concern over sacrificing national heritage for financial ties to Trump.
Architectural experts and anti-corruption organizations have also criticized the passage of this law, which appears to be heavily influenced by a desire for US support amidst Serbia's complex geopolitical position.
Amidst this turbulence, it's reported that Trump had considered establishing a hotel in Belgrade long before his presidency, reflecting long-standing ambitions tied to the region and the potential personal profits for his family.
The developments unfold as Vucic's government grapples with maintaining relations with both Washington and Russia, navigating a politically fraught landscape amid sanctions and historical grievances.
