US: Statement of two organisations in the north as terrorists, uncoordinated decision · Global Voices

Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti said during the argument of the decision that these two organisations -- operating in the north -- present “serious and direct threats to constitutional order and security in Kosovo”.

The Kosovo Government's decision to declare these groups as terrorist organisations has not been co-ordinated with the US and other international partners. This decision would have to be co-ordinated with Kosovo's closest international partners, including those who have primary responsibility to ensure Kosovo's stability. We again call on Kosovo to refrain from unilateral steps as we work with all sides to resolve the current” crisis, a spokesman said. UN for Radio Free Europe.

According to Kurti, these two organisations have carried out action “with terrorist elements”, such as armed attacks on members of the Kosovo Police, members of the European Union's Mission to End EULEX Law and NATO Mission soldiers in Kosovo, KFOR.

spokesman The UN said the US condemns violence “unacceptable to NATO mission troops KFOR”.

“Those who have committed to these attacks must be held accountable, following a regular process of full transparency”, the spokesman said.

On May 29th, Serb protesters in Zvecan clashed with KFOR members. Tens were hurt by both sides during these clashes.

Authorities in Kosovo have clarified that the decision to declare these two terrorist organisations will not affect anyone who may have committed criminal acts before that decision.

Under the law in Kosovo, when organisations are declared terrorist, their activity is immediately banned. Any further activity of them would bear serious legal consequences.

“Civil Protection” and “North Brigade” number hundreds of their members from the ranks of the Serb community.

Their announcement as terrorist organisations comes at a time when tensions in northern Kosovo mostly inhabited by Serbs have increased.

Local Serbs are opposing the new Albanian mayors of Zvecan, Zubin Potok and Leposaviqi, who were elected 23 April. These votes were boycotted by the Serb population.

Since May 26th, Serbs have protested in the north, and since then several attacks with shock bombs and hand grenades have been recorded, which have caused material damage, but without consequences in people.

The international community has asked Kosovo and Serbia to immediately stress the situation and Pristina organise new elections in four municipalities in the north.