Hundreds of thousands of protesters ruled the streets of Belgrade, Serbia (Yugoslavia's largest and most powerful republic) on October 5. They set fire to parts of the parliament (main government building) and took over government-run television stations. For the past week, demonstrators have demanded that President Slobodan Milosevic step down. They want Milosevic to accept his defeat in the September 24 presidential election.

Police used tear gas to try to control the crowds but it soon became clear that protesters by far outnumbered police officers. Many police officers even joined the protesters. Dozens of people were injured during the rallies. Many were taken to hospital emergency rooms.

There was no sign of Milosevic during the rallies held against him. Some reports said Milosevic is staying in a village near the border of Romania and Bulgaria that is heavily guarded by military troops.

After more than a week of demonstrations against his rule, Yugoslavia's long-time President Slobodan Milosevic finally admitted he lost the presidential election. Milosevic's opponent in the election, Vojislav Kostunica, took the presidential oath on October 7.

By Dina Maasarani

Greger: Tell me about what's happened in Serbia (Yugoslavia) recently!