Vuciq: Greater power, European Union, is asking me to recognise Kosovo

Serbia's president, Aleksandar Vucic, has criticised those who believe Kosovo is objectively independent. The Vucic Declaration did so, allegedly citing his conflict with some in Serbia's government.

Vucic was positioned as a kind of victim, but it is not fully clear how he will publicly handle the Kosovo knot, except in practice, it is evident that he has begun to implement the Ohrid Agreement, Danas writes. And that at a time yet to be known whether the EU will recognise the recently concluded elections, or rather legitimize election irregularities.

Speaking to Kosovo, Serbia's president quoted former France President Charles De Gaulle, who recalled the fact that during his mandate, Algeria assumed the right to self-rule.

In democratic countries it is impossible not to lose almost everything by popularity... But for me, the main question is what we want from our country”, Vucic said.

Serbia's “We citizens, we Serbs, should ask what we want from our country, how we will do it, enthusiastically, or we will cry and cry for our fate”, Vucic said.

He kept talking about Kosovo, saying it is an obstacle within the country, but also that there are pressures from abroad.

“Europe is demanding that we recognise independent Kosovo, do not lie that this is not true, it is essentially asking for this”, the Serbian president said.

“De facto or de jure. That's what's required. Let's not lie about it. The greatest power, the European Union is demanding this”, Vucic said

Speaking about whether Serbia's citizens want their state to enter the EU, Vucic said half of the citizens are pro and the other half against EU accession.

He also said that citizens of Serbia also disagree as regards the recognition of Kosovo.

We can lie to ourselves that we have reconciliation on this matter. Of course we don't. Of course, some think Kosovo should surrender as soon as possible because Serbia would be healthier, but they do not say that and should not say it publicly. Others would say Kosovo should be protected by anyone, but without me and my children”, he said.