American Congressman: West not allowing Kosovo destabilisation

While both sides must take steps to reduce tensions in northern Kosovo, Serbia in particular should not be tolerated for the destabilisation it is causing in the region, including violation of Kosovo's sovereignty. So said American Congressman for the Bronx, Richie Torres.

Torres has spoken out on many occasions about a harsh attitude towards Kosovo amid increased tensions over neighbouring Serbia.

In an interview for Euronews Albania. He explained that Kosovo is a leader in regional democracy and should not be punished.

Kosovo is becoming more democratic, while Serbia is becoming more autocratic. Kosovo is a staunch ally with the West, while Serbia is essentially a satellite in Russia's orbit. ”

When asked why he thinks the United States and the European Union have reacted sharply to Pristina, Torres said he would like to have an answer, but it is clear that the West is following “a unilateral approach that favours Serbia and discriminates against Kosovo”.

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Tensions in northern Kosovo escalated 26 May, when young Albanian mayors of four northern municipalities tried to enter municipal offices.

Protests and violence erupted in northern municipalities and over 30 NATO troops were injured, along with journalists, protesters and police.

Tensions escalated further with the arrest of three Kosovo police within Kosovo's border and sending them to Serbia, which directly violates the Kumanovo Agreement.

“Notice how the European Union has said nothing about arresting Kosovo police from the Serbian regime. So there is perception of a double standard within the Albanian diaspora and among the officials who support the Albanian diaspora, as I am,” said.

He called silence from the EU “inexplicable”.

The European Union's curiosity is deafening and inexplicable to me. What will the West gain from a policy of reconciliation with an autocratic Serbia, isolating democratic Kosovo?” he asked.

Torres stressed that Kosovo is considered the strongest democracy in the Western Balkans.

“According to independent estimates, Kosovo is so democratic that it has secured a grant of more than $200m from the US Millennium Challenge Corporation, which is recognition of the progress Kosovo has made towards governance, while Serbia is moving in a completely opposite direction,” he came in.

Torres also said Serbia has repeatedly refused to punish Russia and President Vladimir Putin for the “illegal invasion of Ukraine”.

When asked what to say to Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti and Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic if possible, Ritchie said: “ ”