PRISTINA (Reuters) – The Kosovo government has announced its plans to de-escalate tensions in the northern region, which has seen a surge in hostilities between Albanians and ethnic Serbs since the country’s declaration of independence in 2008. This move comes as the government aims to reduce the police presence and implement other measures in response to the recent violence.
The violence in north Kosovo began in late May when Albanian mayors took office after a Serb-boycotted election. This led to the eruption of hostilities among the 50,000 Serbs residing in the region, who were demanding more autonomy based on a decade-old agreement. The clashes resulted in a significant number of injuries, with 93 NATO peacekeeping soldiers and 52 Serbs being wounded.
In an official statement released on Tuesday evening, the government reassured that it will refrain from taking any actions that could further escalate the situation in the north. As a first step, they have decided to immediately reduce the police presence in and around municipal buildings by 25%. This downsizing of the police force will be done in coordination with NATO troops and the EU police mission. Additionally, snap elections are planned for the four municipalities in the region after the conclusion of the summer season.
The escalating tensions in the northern region have raised concerns among the international community. The United States and the European Union, Kosovo’s main allies, have primarily attributed the tensions to nationalist Prime Minister Albin Kurti. The EU has already implemented certain measures, such as halting visits by Kosovo officials and suspending a significant portion of economic aid to the region. Brussels has warned of further actions unless Kurti takes steps to alleviate the tensions.
As the situation continues to unfold, the international community awaits concrete actions and solutions to ensure peace and stability in the northern region of Kosovo. (Reporting by Fatos Bytyci; Editing by Stephen Coates)
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