The US Embassy in Pristina and Belgrade with a joint statement: Remove the barricades immediately

The United States Embassy in Pristina and Belgrade has come out with a joint communiqué calling for the removal of barricades in Kosovo's north, located by local Serbs.

The communiqué reportedly expresses their deep concern for the current situation in northern Kosovo”.

“We understand that Kosovo authorities have arrested an individual suspected of involvement in a violent attack on Kosovo law enforcement authorities and the election commission. This arrest is being used as justification for illegal roadblocks, as well as threats and intimidation against Kosovo authorities and the local population”, said the communique.

Also in the communique, the US is said to be in support of NATO, which guarantees security in Kosovo.

The “those who set up illegal roadblocks must dismantle them immediately. We expect to end all threats of violence and intimidation. We express our full gratitude and support for the NATO Force in Kosovo (KFOR) for its efforts to ensure the security and freedom of movement and for the European Union's Mission for Rule of Law (EULEX). We strongly condemn as unacceptable all attacks on Kosovo and international security agencies”, the announcement continues.

“We urge all to exercise maximum content, to take immediate measures to achieve a de-progressing of the situation and to refrain from provocative acts. We encourage the parties to work within the framework of the EU's facilitated dialogue to resolve worrying questions”, said the communique.