The special envoy of the United States for the Western Balkans, Gabriel Escobar, has emphasized the importance of a more pragmatic approach by the Kosovo Government in its pursuit of a “fresh approach” to dialogue for normalizing relations with Serbia.

In an interview with Voice of America, the high-ranking American official underscored that the Kosovo Government should adopt a more practical and flexible stance as it engages in the dialogue process. He further pointed out that the Kosovo Government appears to have a clear understanding of the necessary steps in the dialogue process.

Gabriel Escobar’s interview with VOA

Voice of America: What were the key takeaways from your meetings with Western Balkan leaders? Have they demonstrated a commitment to staying on the Euro-Atlantic integration path they’ve chosen?

Gabriel Escobar: The outcomes largely depend on which leaders we are referring to. I can already express my concerns about the apparent division in the Balkans. On one side, we have NATO members who are deeply dedicated to their NATO and European aspirations, while on the other, we see three others encountering difficulties. In my discussions, I have consistently emphasized that the United States supports the Euro-Atlantic journey for all nations in the region. We would like to see them address their internal and regional differences, which are impeding their progress.

Voice of America: Can you provide names of the individuals you are discussing?

Gabriel Escobar: Let’s start with North Macedonia. We commend North Macedonia for its rational leadership and its European leadership role, especially as the head of the OSCE. North Macedonia continually demonstrates itself as a valuable partner. In this regard, we hope to witness their active participation within the European Union as well. Albania has excelled in its role on the UN Security Council, bilateral relationships, and its dedication to NATO. During our meetings with Montenegro’s new president, we assured him that he is a welcome and significant partner within the transatlantic community. We encouraged him to foster the formation of a government focused solely on European integration and NATO commitment, to which he pledged his commitment. Hence, we are pleased that he has taken this important message to heart and will take action accordingly.

Voice of America: I also wish to inquire about Bosnia, and later, I will ask about Serbia.

Gabriel Escobar: Certainly. As you are aware, Bosnia faces substantial challenges. Currently, one of the most pressing challenges is Dodik’s destabilizing actions, which challenge the stability and security foundations in Bosnia and Herzegovina for over 25 years – these foundations being the Dayton Peace Agreement and its associated structures, including peacekeeping and the High Representative. This is undeniably the most significant challenge Bosnia and Herzegovina faces at the moment. Thus, it’s crucial for responsible voices to work together and determine how to strengthen the Dayton Agreement and facilitate Bosnia and Herzegovina’s European path.

Voice of America: As reported on Monday, Serbia did not join in extending sanctions against Russia. Did you have the opportunity to discuss this issue with President Vučić here in New York, and what was your message to him?

Gabriel Escobar: I have not had a chance to meet with President Vučić. However, I’d like to emphasize that we believe Serbia should consider imposing sanctions. While there is no legal obligation to do so, Serbia is undoubtedly capable of determining its foreign policy. Remaining on the periphery of the European family does not align with Serbia’s best interests. This is the consistent message we have conveyed and will continue to emphasize.

Voice of America: Is there a particular reason you did not meet with President Vučić? Do you plan to meet with him?

Gabriel Escobar: It’s merely a matter of scheduling. I hope to meet with him later this week.

Voice of America: Serbia and Kosovo remain in a prolonged deadlock. Is it time for a new approach from the EU and the USA that might influence their determination?

Gabriel Escobar: No, not necessarily. If I were to suggest anything, it would not be a new approach from the dialogue partners. Instead, it’s time for some individuals who have viewed dialogue as an “either/or” option to adopt a new perspective. Specifically, I’m referring to the Kosovo Government. They have a clear obligation regarding what needs to be done. I believe Borrell’s statement was crystal clear. While we encourage Serbia to continue being constructive and patient, we also implore Serbia not to engage in any destabilizing actions within Kosovo. We must continue working through the dialogue process as there is no alternative. For the region, European integration is the only path forward.

Voice of America: What is your response to Prime Minister Kurti’s criticisms of mediator Miroslav Lajčák?

Gabriel Escobar: Miroslav Lajčák enjoys the full confidence of both the European Union and the United States. After the failed talks, all EU member states issued a joint statement expressing support for Lajčák. This is something they need to contend with. Lajčák is not going anywhere, and neither is the dialogue. I do not believe a country of one and a half million people can persuade the transatlantic community of 700 million to change its tactics. Instead, what’s needed is a more pragmatic approach from the Kosovo Government. Additionally, I must highlight that I’ve been alarmed by personal attacks on Lajčák within Kosovo’s social sphere over the past week. I called upon President Osmani and Prime Minister Kurti to condemn these attacks. While I’m not suggesting they originate from the Government of Kosovo, it’s crucial for the Kosovo Government to be unequivocal that personal attacks on the special representative are unacceptable.

Voice of America: I’d also like to discuss Montenegro, which still lacks a government. You mentioned that you had the opportunity to discuss some issues with President Milatović. What did you discuss with him, and did you convey the American recommendation not to include the Democratic Front, which you consider anti-Western, in the government?

Gabriel Escobar: I have not yet met President Milatović, but I will be meeting with him. However, he has already had important, fruitful, and positive discussions with Advisor Chollet, the Secretary of State, and White House representatives. During these meetings, the United States consistently conveyed our expectation of seeing parties committed to European integration and NATO in the government, and who share our position on Russia. I believe we have been very clear on this, and he has indicated his agreement. Thus, we anticipate the formation of a government and encourage him [President Milatović] to unite the parties. As the head of state, he plays a crucial role in conveying the right message to the people. We are confident that he understood our intent.