Dialogue mediated by the European Union is the only way forward for Kosovo and Serbia, US Permanent Ambassador to NATO Julianne Smith said on June 14.

This was her answer to the journalists’ questions regarding the current tensions in the north of Kosovo.

“The number one priority is to take immediate action by both sides to de-escalate the situation,” Smith said.

She said that the NATO allies are following “with great interest and concern” the developments in Kosovo.

Smith made these statements during an online press conference before the meeting of defense ministers of NATO member states, which will be held in Brussels on June 15 and 16.

She emphasized that the US was the first to condemn the violence against NATO soldiers, especially against the troops of the Italian and Hungarian contingents.

“We believe that people who caused the violence should be held accountable through legal and transparent procedures,” said Smith.

She also said that the US encourages the Prime Minister of Kosovo, Albin Kurti, and his Government to ensure that the new Albanian mayors of the municipalities in the north, inhabited by a majority of Serbs, perform their duties from alternative locations.

“We also encourage them to withdraw police units from municipal buildings,” said Smith, adding that he welcomes the decision of the Government of Serbia to reduce the readiness and number of military troops near the border with Kosovo.

“But the essence of this matter is that – which is also the position of the entire alliance – the dialogue that is mediated by the EU is the only way forward and that this message of NATO has been conveyed to everyone”, emphasized Smith.