Serbia’s troop deployment on Kosovo’s border is being compared to Russia’s actions towards Ukraine before its invasion, according to the Kosovar foreign minister. The minister is calling on the European Union to take action against Belgrade, such as freezing its candidacy status. This warning comes after the United States expressed concern over the Serbian military build-up along the Kosovo frontier, which is causing instability in the region. NATO has also authorized additional peacekeeping forces for Kosovo.
In an interview with German broadcaster Deutschlandfunk, Kosovar Foreign Minister Donika Gervalla-Schwarz highlighted the unprecedented concentration of troops and weaponry on the border. She expressed uncertainty about how the international community would respond to this situation. Gervalla-Schwarz also noted that Serbia’s rhetoric and methods resemble Russian behavior towards Ukraine, further raising concerns.
Gervalla-Schwarz emphasized the importance of taking necessary steps to address the situation. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic stated that he has no intention of ordering his forces to cross the border into Kosovo, as it would harm Serbia’s aspirations to join the EU. However, tensions between the two countries have been high since a recent battle between police and armed ethnic Serbs in northern Kosovo.
Kosovo, which declared independence from Serbia in 2008, accuses Serbia of arming and supporting the Serb fighters. On the other hand, Serbia accuses Kosovo of instigating violence by failing to implement a decade-old, EU-brokered deal for local autonomy for Serbs in the northern region.
Gervalla-Schwarz warned that if clear consequences are not imposed on Serbia, President Vucic will not back down. This could include suspending EU funds for Serbia and its membership candidacy status.
In conclusion, the situation on the Kosovo-Serbia border is causing concern, with parallels being drawn to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The Kosovar foreign minister is urging the EU to take action against Serbia, and tensions between the two countries remain high. The international community’s response and potential consequences for Serbia’s actions are crucial in resolving the situation.
