Svechla: The situation in the north was de-executed with the help of internationals, but this is temporary.

Interior Minister Jhelal Svecla expects provocations from Serbia again. He in an interview for the Swiss media, “20 minuten” said he is convinced that provocations “will not stop”.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vuciq's direct influence on tensioning the situation in northern Kosovo, Svecla says “came in the form of mobilisation, financing and logistical support”.

Besides, it was the Serbian Armed Forces, which were located at the border as a threat. Of course, it has had influence both from Russia and from criminal organisations in the region, which for years have misused Kosovo's north as a point of transportation for goods, drugs and even people and have been able to make great profits. All these factors are combined to destabilise not only Kosovo's north, but the entire country”, he said.

Svechla says removing the barricades was achieved “with the help of partners”, but is very optimistic about what will happen next.

“With the help of our partners, we have also managed to bring a de-exception, but based on past experience this is obviously only temporary”, he said.

For the situation in the country's north, Svechla says that we are “and we are concerned, but not at all afraid”.

The analysis of the situation is based on existing facts and reasons. But unreasonable scenarios cannot be fully ruled out. We are currently witnessing a European war in which a despot has pursued dark goals for Ukraine and the region, crossing red lines that until recently seemed unimaginable”, Svechla says.

Asked whether you want the international parties to become more involved in resolving the situation in the country's north, Svecla replied:

“Serbia is not a party to internal affairs in Kosovo, but rather an aggressor. Serbia is only in discussion about normalising relations between the two countries. Only Kosovo authorities are competent on issues related to Kosovo's internal organisation. This is done in partnership and in co-operation with the international community”.

He said he wished Kosovo “only has democratic states”, while speaking of the lack of democracy in Serbia.

For the situation in the north, once again, Svechla said it is “convinced that order and law will soon triumph there too”.