Serbia: Ruling party supporters used state research vessel in Novi Sad rally

Supporters of Serbia's ruling Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) and President Aleksandar Vučić utilized a state-owned research vessel during a rally in Novi Sad on Thursday, June 10. The vessel, known as "Argus" and described as a "floating laboratory," was seen anchored at Oficirac beach.

From the catamaran, an SNS activist directed participants of the propaganda event on how to activate flares and coordinate the rally. The action involved boats on the Danube, activists on the embankment and Varadinski Bridge, and a flyover with a banner reading "Serbia Wins," apparently a slogan for Vučić's upcoming election list.

The "Argus" ship, which is over 33 meters long and equipped for hydrobiological research and pollution analysis, has been owned by Serbia since 2003. It was a gift from the German state of Hesse, initiated by then-Prime Minister Zoran Đinđić, following its use in a Rhine River revitalization project. The vessel is intended for monitoring water quality, fish populations, and the Danube basin's overall condition.

This use of a specialized research vessel for a political rally has drawn attention, particularly given its intended purpose for environmental monitoring and scientific study.