Rising tensions in the Balkans: Kosovo PM warns of possible war
8:12 AM EDT, May 24, 2024
- The risk of a new war is real - expressed the Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, who voiced serious concerns. His concern is spurred by Serbia's actions and the concentration of its military units near the border with Kosovo.
Kosovo's prime Minister, Albin Kurti, participated in a security conference in London. During his speech, Kurti warned about escalating tensions in the Balkans and highlighted Serbia's aggressive actions, which were supported by Russia.
"The risk of a new war is real"
Kurti emphasized that Serbia seeks to realize its territorial ambitions.
Three of the four combined brigades of the Serbian army, including 48 operational bases around the border with Kosovo, not including other specialized units, are stationed in the south of the territory, near the border with Kosovo. The threat is not merely theoretical. The risk of a new war is real - noted Prime Minister Albin Kurti.
According to a report from the investigative portal BIRN, "Kosovo is exposed to disinformation and narratives from Russia and China aimed at inciting inter-ethnic and inter-religious conflicts, criminalizing NATO, undermining public trust in Euro-Atlantic integration."
Serbia has been developing its relations with China for years
Serbia was the first country in Europe to purchase the FK-3 anti-aircraft system and combat and reconnaissance drones from China. Relations with Beijing are part of Belgrade's broader strategy, which refuses to recognize Kosovo's independence declared in 2008. A significant Serbian minority still lives in Kosovo, particularly in the northern part of the country, near the border with Serbia.
The situation in the Balkans is further aggravated by tensions in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Republika Srpska, one of the constituent entities of this federal state, strives for independence. Its leader, Milorad Dodik, announced that his government would soon propose a "peaceful solution" to the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
While the Balkans region faces rising tensions, the international community must closely monitor developments and strive to maintain stability. International cooperation and dialogue are key to preventing conflict escalation and ensuring peace in the region.
