Serbia Leases Former Army Headquarters in Belgrade to Firm Owned by Trump Son-In-Law

Serbian authorities have signed a 99-year lease deal with Jared Kushner’s U.S.-based investment firm, Affinity Global Development, to overhaul two buildings that once housed the headquarters of the former Yugoslav People’s Army. The Serbian construction ministry stated that the “reputable American company” connected to Kushner was chosen for the project, which involves the revitalization of the compound.

The investment firm, led by Kushner, plans to transform the site into a hotel, apartments, shops, and office spaces. The two buildings were damaged during the NATO bombing of Yugoslavia in 1999. As part of the agreement, the investor has agreed to return the land without compensation if the project is not completed on time and to build a memorial center dedicated to the victims of the bombing.

Asher Abershera, CEO of Affinity Global Development, announced that Serbian architects and designers would be invited to submit ideas for the memorial center. Despite the plans for redevelopment, over 22,000 people in Serbia have signed a petition calling for the preservation of the buildings, designed by renowned Serbian architect Nikola Dobrovic.

The design of the buildings, resembling a canyon of the Sutjeska river in Eastern Bosnia, holds historical significance as it symbolizes a major World War Two battle against the Germans in the Balkans. The project aims to blend modern development with historical preservation, creating a unique space that honors the past while embracing the future.