Serbia's military buildup near Kosovo heightens war fears
24 May 2024 11:41
The risk of a new war is real, the Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, expressed serious concerns. His concern is caused by Serbia's actions and the concentration of this country's military units near the border with Kosovo.
The Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, participated in a security conference held in London. During his speech, Kurti warned about the escalation of tensions in the Balkans. He pointed out, among other things, the aggressive actions of Serbia 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 hostile narratives coming from Russia and China, whose goal is to incite ethnic and religious war in the country, criminalize NATO, and diminish 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.
Tensions in Bosnia and Herzegovina further aggravate the situation in the Balkans. 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 the escalation of conflicts and ensuring peace in the region.
