A group of preservationists in Serbia has challenged the plans for a Trump-branded hotel complex, which is backed by Jared Kushner, the president’s son-in-law. The project, valued at half a billion dollars, is set to be built in Belgrade and would involve the Trump Organization, managed by the president’s sons, Eric and Donald Jr.
The Serbian government declared the project site, a historic building damaged during the 1999 conflict, as no longer culturally protected shortly after President Trump won re-election in November. This decision has faced backlash from cultural historians and architects, who argue that it violates legal protections and was politically motivated.
Estela Radonjic Zivkov, the former deputy director of the Republic Institute for the Protection of Cultural Monuments, noted that state intelligence pressured her not to oppose the government’s decision, which she did anyway. The controversy has escalated, leading to a criminal investigation of Goran Vasic, the director of the cultural institute, who is accused of abuse of power for falsifying documents related to the site’s protected status.
Critics, including Serbian college students protesting against their government, have seized upon this development as emblematic of broader corruption. The inquiry raises questions about potential political pressure from Serbia’s finance minister, Sinisa Mali, who is linked to the White House.
The hotel and apartment complex planned by the Trump family is situated on prime real estate across from the Serbian government’s headquarters. Political analysts suggest that President Aleksandar Vucic has a vested interest in fostering this project to maintain favorable relations with the Trump administration.
Despite ongoing investigations, the Serbian government has signed a deal with Kushner’s company, granting them a lengthy, cost-free lease in exchange for a percentage of future profits. However, opposition from cultural preservationists continues, with accusations of unlawful government actions in reclassifying the site.
The situation has garnered significant attention, with various parties, including the nonprofit Europa Nostra, advocating for adherence to legal protections for cultural heritage. As of now, the investigation continues, with multiple individuals, including those involved in the cultural institute, slated for questioning.