Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vučić spoke out on Sunday, emphasizing what he sees as the Western world’s main goal of securing Kosovo’s independence from Serbia. He anticipates that the Pristina-Belgrade dialogue will continue, possibly by the end of this week in Brussels.
Vučić made these statements during a public address on Pink television, following a meeting with five Western diplomats in Belgrade the previous day.
He described the previous day’s meeting as “challenging” and refrained from divulging further details.
“Everything related to Kosovo is exceptionally difficult for us,” Vučić noted. “Many believe this is solely due to the Banjska incident, but it’s not. For us, it was tactically terrible and had specific repercussions. However, from a strategic standpoint, their sole aim is to make us recognize Kosovo”.
Serbia has consistently refuted Kosovo’s allegations that it attempted to “annex the northern part of Kosovo” in light of the attack on Kosovo Police by an armed group of Serbs on September 24 in the village of Banjska in Zvecan. This incident resulted in the tragic death of police officer Afrim Bunjaku.
Following his meeting with Vučić, the European Union’s Special Representative for Kosovo-Serbia dialogue, Miroslav Lajčák, reiterated the need for those who attacked Kosovo Police in Banjska to face justice and insisted on a comprehensive investigation of the incident. Lajčák also called for Serbia’s cooperation in this matter.
During Saturday’s diplomatic meetings in Pristina with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti and in Belgrade with Serbian President Vučić, Western envoys implored both parties to normalize their relations and adhere to the Agreement on normalization.
Lajčák stressed in Pristina that the situation is becoming increasingly tense and that normalizing relations between Kosovo and Serbia is more urgent now than ever.
Lajčák declared in Pristina that he, along with four other diplomats, visited Pristina and Belgrade with a plan.
When asked if he expects pressure, Vučić stated that Western countries have their own policies and positions that “are entirely contrary to our position”.
“We need to understand that reality. The United States will not change its stance, and Germany will not change its stance,” said Vučić.
Meanwhile, after Saturday’s diplomatic encounter, Prime Minister Kurti underscored Kosovo’s top priorities and immediate concerns, which include state and citizen security, border and territorial integrity.
“Following the terrorist and criminal attack on September 24, executed by paramilitary groups with Serbia’s support and participation, ensuring non-repetition is of utmost importance,” Kurti emphasized.
Regarding the ongoing dialogue, he stressed the necessity for a substantial reevaluation and a fresh approach to the situation.
