Subject: Analytical and informational report on the status, planning assumptions, and possible scenarios regarding the (now suspended) redevelopment project of the General Staff Complex in Belgrade, associated with Affinity Partners (Jared Kushner) and the proposed Trump-branded hotel.
Executive Summary
- Current Status (December 2025):
Affinity Partners (Jared Kushner’s firm) has withdrawn its application and suspended participation in the planned project to build a luxury hotel and mixed-use complex on the site of the bomb-damaged General Staff and Ministry of Defense buildings in Kneza Miloša Street. The withdrawal was announced in mid-December 2025 following indictments against the Minister of Culture and other officials for abuse of office and document forgery related to the removal of cultural heritage status.
- Legal Framework Prior to Suspension:
In November 2025, the National Assembly adopted a special law classifying the project as one of national importance, introducing fast-track permitting procedures. This followed the November 2024 decision to revoke the cultural heritage status of the complex.
- Reactions and Consequences:
Amid mass protest and investigations into alleged forgery in the heritage removal process, Affinity Partners stated that „major projects should unite,“ and decided to step aside for now. The President of Serbia linked the withdrawal to public pressure and protests, announced criminal charges against those who “sabotaged” the investment, and estimated a lost investment of at least 750 million USD.
- Next Step:
There are no announcements about renewing negotiations with Affinity Partners. Judicial proceedings continue, and the government must redefine the urban planning approach for one of Belgrade’s most sensitive central locations, balancing memorial and architectural values with potential new investment models.
Positions and Public Statements
- Affinity Partners:
emphasized its long-term interest in Serbia as an investment destination but underlined that the current political and social environment was not conducive to proceeding with the project……
The analysis above represents an executive excerpt. For access to the full report and continued assessment, please contact Shoreline Talent International.
