A firm reiteration of condemnation was voiced in Brussels regarding the Sunday attacks on Kosovo Police, resulting in the tragic loss of a police officer’s life.
However, when questioned about whether the stance persists that Serbia has taken all requisite steps for de-escalation while Kosovo has not, leading to measures directed at Kosovo instead of Serbia, the European Union’s spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Peter Stano, clarified that “member states determine the measures”.
He emphasized that concerning the events of Sunday, the EU has indeed condemned the acts, but investigations are currently underway. These investigations aim to uncover the precise circumstances surrounding the incident.
“Ongoing investigations are necessary to establish all the facts related to the attacks. Until a comprehensive understanding of the facts is reached, we will withhold comment on recent developments,” Stano affirmed.
Regarding the measures imposed on Kosovo, he reiterated that these are classified as “measures rather than sanctions”. They were enacted because member states identified specific actions lacking on Kosovo’s part in de-escalating tensions in the northern region.
Stano reaffirmed that “currently, the measures are directed at Kosovo, with the possibility of being lifted or intensified contingent on the evolving situation on the ground. They can also be enacted against Serbia”.
The EU spokesperson emphasized that Sunday’s events underscore the critical importance of de-escalating tensions and returning to dialogue for the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia.
“We must chart a way out of the ongoing crisis and reengage in problem-solving through diplomatic dialogue, as de-escalation is of utmost urgency,” Stano stressed.
On Sunday, during clashes with an armed group in the northern region, predominantly inhabited by Serbs, a Kosovo Police officer lost his life, and several others sustained injuries.
Authorities confirmed that the police officer, Afrim Bunjaku, succumbed to injuries sustained during the attack.
According to reports, around 30 armed attackers had sought refuge within the Banjska Monastery, engaging in gunfire exchanges with law enforcement throughout the day.
The Kosovo Prosecutor’s Office reported that three suspected attackers were fatally injured.
Kosovo authorities have assigned blame to Serbia for the attack, while Belgrade blamed it on Kosovo Serbs.
