Tensions have risen once again between Kosovo and Serbia, with both sides exchanging accusations over a border incident. The Serbian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has claimed that heavily armed Kosovo Police crossed the border near the village of Qirkoviqi/Cirkovice, escalating fears of further unrest.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic has pointed the finger at Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti, accusing him of ordering the alleged provocation. “Kurti ordered this act, and the Americans are well aware of it,” Vucic said in a statement, suggesting that the situation could be part of a broader political strategy.
However, Kosovo’s authorities have vehemently denied the claims, describing them as “false” and accusing Serbia of attempting to sow insecurity. A spokesperson for the Kosovo Police said that there had been no such incursion, and emphasized the importance of maintaining calm in the region.
Meanwhile, NATO and the Kosovo Force (KFOR) – a peacekeeping mission deployed in Kosovo – have stated that the situation along the border remains calm. They continue to monitor the situation closely, reiterating their commitment to ensuring stability in the area.
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between the two countries, which have yet to reach a comprehensive agreement following Kosovo’s declaration of independence in 2008. Although relations have improved in recent years, sporadic incidents like this one continue to fuel instability in the region.
The international community, including the European Union and the United States, has repeatedly urged both sides to avoid escalating tensions and to engage in dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully.
