The European Union is firm in its stance that those responsible for the recent attack on Kosovo Police officers in the northern part of the country must face legal consequences, and a thorough investigation is necessary to establish all the facts.
Peter Stano, the EU Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security, emphasized this during a press conference.
When questioned about the role EULEX (European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo) could play in facilitating communication between the police authorities in Kosovo and Serbia, given their lack of direct cooperation, the EU spokesperson pointed out that EULEX is actively operating on the ground and collaborating effectively with Kosovo authorities.
“EULEX serves as the secondary responder and is engaged upon the request of the Kosovo Police. Their collaboration has been highly effective thus far. The EULEX commander maintains continuous contact with the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, providing updates on developments in the field,” stated Stano.
He reiterated that ongoing investigations are critical, and it is unequivocal that those responsible for the attack should be brought to justice.
“Investigations are still in progress and have not concluded. The Kosovo Police are entirely in charge of these investigations, with the assistance of EULEX and KFOR when requested. It is imperative to determine who orchestrated these terrorist attacks, who carried them out, and who stands behind them. Accountability and the absence of impunity are fundamental principles upheld by the EU. All individuals responsible must face the legal system, and there is no room for doubt in this regard,” he affirmed.
Concerning the EU’s role in ensuring that individuals in Serbia involved in the attacks do not evade justice, Stano explained that their “communication with partners follows established diplomatic channels rather than media outlets”.
Stano emphasized that diplomatic efforts related to the situation in Kosovo are ongoing, mentioning a meeting held on Monday with the EU Special Representative, Miroslav Lajčák, and high-level officials from the United States, Germany, France, and Italy.
“High Representative Josep Borrell has also been in contact with leaders in Kosovo and Serbia, as well as with member states. Member states are assessing the situation. Representatives of member states are convening this afternoon in Brussels to discuss necessary actions,” Stano added.
On September 24, in the early hours of the morning, Kosovo Police encountered an armed attack by a group of masked individuals while en route to investigate a road blockade caused by two unregistered trucks in the village of Banjska in Zvecan.
The incident resulted in the tragic death of Kosovo Police officer Afrim Bunjaku, along with injuries to several other officers. During the exchange of gunfire, three attackers of Serbian nationality were killed, and eight others were apprehended.
