At least 30 NATO peacekeeping soldiers have sustained injuries following intense clashes that erupted in northern Kosovo after ethnically Albanian mayors assumed office in a predominantly Kosovo Serb area.
These appointments, which came after Kosovo Serbs boycotted the April elections, have sparked unrest and heightened tensions between the two communities. The tensions soon turned violent prompting NATO’s Kosovo Force (KFOR) to increase its presence in the area.
Italian defense ministry confirmed that at least 34 soldiers were injured, including troops from Hungary and Moldova, after protesters launched Molotov cocktails, firecrackers, stones, and other dangerous objects at them. Among those injured were 14 Italian soldiers, along with Hungarian and Moldovan troops.
Differing accounts have emerged regarding the clashes between protesters and the NATO peacekeeping forces. Serbian State Secretary Nemanja Starović claimed that many protesters were injured and accused KFOR of using flash grenades when the “peaceful” demonstrators had decided to disperse. However, NATO countries maintain that the violence originated from the protesters themselves, who attempted to breach security cordons and use force to enter municipal facilities.
Security measures amid rising violence
The situation in northern Kosovo has witnessed a surge in violence in recent days. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić responded by putting the armed forces on the highest level of combat readiness. The heightened tensions were triggered when Kosovo police clashed with protesters attempting to block the newly elected ethnic Albanian mayor from entering their office.
Barbed wire was installed around a municipal administration building in the municipality of Leposavić, while KFOR troops were seen wearing anti-riot gear. In the town of Zvecan, Kosovo police special units erected a fence near the municipal administration building. The increased security measures reflect the delicate nature of the situation and the need to maintain order.
International reaction and concerns
Serbian Prime Minister Ana Brnabić criticized the timing of KFOR’s increased presence, deeming it “belated” and emphasizing that the mission’s objective was to protect the interests and peace of the people in Kosovo and Metohija, not the usurpers. Brnabić acknowledged the tense and difficult situation in the region but commended the Serbs for remaining calm and refraining from violence.
The United States ambassador to Kosovo, Jeff Hovenier, condemned the “violent actions” by protesters, particularly noting the use of explosives. The European Union Ambassador to Kosovo, Tomáš Szunyog, also voiced condemnation, highlighting the damage inflicted on media vehicles during the unrest.
Growing concerns over regional stability
Russia’s Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, expressed deep concern over the situation, describing it as a “large eruption brewing up in the center of Europe.” The clashes and escalating tensions in northern Kosovo have raised fears about the stability of the region and the potential for further violence.
As the situation unfolds, efforts to de-escalate tensions and restore calm are crucial. Diplomatic engagement and dialogue between all parties involved will be vital in seeking a peaceful resolution and preventing further violence in this ethnically divided region.
NATO to send 700 more troops to help quell protests
Following the incident, NATO has announced to send 700 more troops to northern Kosovo to help quell violent protests.