After all the circumstances and facts surrounding the events of September 24 in the village of Banjska in northern Kosovo are verified, the European Union member states will make decisions regarding potential measures and actions, according to the EU Spokesperson, Peter Stano.
This statement comes in response to inquiries about certain EU member states’ calls for punitive actions against Serbia.
Stano emphasized the significance of conducting thorough investigations into the recent terrorist attacks in Kosovo, which occurred on Sunday, and stressed the importance of reaching a clear understanding of what transpired, who is responsible, and the parties involved. Only when the investigations provide a clear picture of these aspects will the EU take appropriate action.
He reminded that the punitive measures imposed on Kosovo, back in July due to non-compliance with requirements related to tensions in the north, are tailored and flexible, established with the consensus of the member states. Stano also noted that similar measures could be enacted against Serbia if the member states determine it necessary.
Nevertheless, he underlined the EU’s commitment to prudently await the conclusion of the investigations before reaching conclusions.
Stano also reiterated that the investigations are being carried out by Kosovo authorities, with assistance from the EU Rule of Law Mission (EULEX) when requested, serving as the secondary security responder in Kosovo.
Regarding the events on September 24 in northern Kosovo, it was a day marred by violence when Kosovo Police faced an armed and masked group while attempting to remove road barricades in the village of Banjska, situated in the municipality of Zvecan, one of the four northern municipalities with a Serbian majority population.
Following this confrontation, the armed group sought refuge in Banjska Monastery, resulting in a prolonged standoff with the police.
Kosovo’s Minister of Internal Affairs Xhelal Sveçla and the Police have asserted that Milan Radojičić, the deputy leader of the Serb List, a prominent political party representing Serbs in Kosovo with official backing from Belgrade, organized and participated in the attack.
Radojičić is under US sanctions and is wanted in Kosovo for alleged witness intimidation related to the well-known “Brezovica” trial.
In response to these allegations, Sveçla released a drone-recorded video showing Milan Radojičić’s presence in Banjska.
The situation has resulted in the arrest of four individuals connected to the events in Banjska, with the Police revealing weapons and other items they claim to have confiscated in the village.
Kosovo has held Serbia responsible for the attack, while Serbia has pointed to Kosovo Serbs as the key actors.
Both the United States and the European Union have strongly condemned the attack, demanding that those responsible be brought to justice.
