Phillips: Kosovo lacks political maturity to be strategic partners

In an interview for Callo. com, Phillips said the responsibility for the institutional stalemate in Kosovo falls not only on political leaders, but also on society, which, according to him, does not require enough accountability from leadership.

Kosovo's “Society is responsible because it does not require more from its political leadership”, Phillips said.

Commenting on Kosovo- The US and the possibility of restarting Strategic Dialogue between the two countries, he suggested that Pristina seek the appointment of an American special envoy who would work in parallel with a representative of the European Union.

“Seek a US special envoy to work alongside a European Union counterpart”, he said.

However, Phillips expressed criticism of Kosovo's readiness to be Washington's strategic partner, especially at a time when Serbia has launched Strategic Dialogue with the US.

Kosovo lacks political maturity to be strategic partners”, the American professor said.

He also spoke of the American gas project and warned that delays could have consequences for Kosovo. According to him, President Donald Trump's administration views international relations even through economic interests, and Pristina should present itself as an economic asset.

“Trump is very transactional. Kosovo should present itself as an economic asset”, Phillips said.

Asked whether Kosovo risks losing its strategic potential in the energy sector, he answered briefly: “

Meanwhile, the United States has indicated that Strategic Dialogue with Kosovo can resume only when appropriate conditions are created, and when the country's institutions are fully functional.

The US Embassy in Pristina has called for concrete steps by Kosovo institutions to fulfil commitments, especially in relation to the Serb community in Kosovo.

To resume planning for a strategic dialogue, we want to see concrete steps from the government in office to advance our common goal of strengthening peace and stability”, the American Embassy has declared.

The US had indefinitely suspended the planning of Strategic Dialogue with Kosovo in September 2025, citing concerns about actions taken by the incumbent government.

Meanwhile, Serbia has launched the first round of Strategic Dialogue with the US on 17 July. Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djurovic has described this development as one of the most important moments in relations between Belgrade and Washington.

Serbia, within this co-operation, has also accepted projects for liquid natural gas and diversification of energy supply.

In Kosovo, the debate over the US gas project continues to be open. US representatives have requested long-term energy partnership with Pristina, while the incumbent Government has declared that it is not against American gas, but that Kosovo's energy priorities have been coal, renewable sources, cogeneration and energy efficiency.

Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti had earlier stated that it was not about breaking relations with the US, but only of suspending the planning of Strategic Dialogue.

We haven't broken up with America, but we have certain differences”, Kurt said. /Kallex