Kurti said he remains committed to normalizing relations with Belgrade.
Kosovo’s caretaker Prime Minister Albin Kurti said that relations between Pristina and Washington remain very strong and that any disagreements stem from issues related to Serbia and its structures, not from bilateral matters.
In an interview with Kanal 10, he underscored that Kosovo has consistently responded to US requests — including accepting Afghan refugees — and that the strategic partnership with Washington remains intact.
According to Kurti, when differences have arisen, they were linked to the US view that Pristina’s stance toward Belgrade was “too strict.”
He stressed that the United States recognizes both Kosovo and Serbia, and therefore cannot be expected to fully align with Pristina’s position:
“They are our irreplaceable ally and key partner.”
Strategic dialogue with the US
Kurti rejected claims that the suspension of the strategic dialogue signaled deteriorating relations. He said cooperation continues in three areas — development, diplomacy and defense — adding that relations in the security sphere “have never been better.”
The US temporarily halted the dialogue in September, expressing concern over Kosovo’s actions in northern Kosovo. Analysts at the time warned that this signaled weakening international support for Kurti.
Relations with Serbia
Kurti said he remains committed to normalizing relations, but has not met Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić since the armed attack in Banjska in September 2023. He insists that Serbia extradite Milan Radoičić, who claimed responsibility for the assault, and withdraw a letter from former prime minister Ana Brnabić expressing reservations about the February 2023 normalization agreement.
Kosovo and Serbia have been negotiating under EU mediation since 2011, but many agreements remain unimplemented. Progress is essential for both countries’ EU integration paths. | BGNES