Through statements by Vjosa Osmani in an interview with Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty’s Kosovo Service via the link
Kosovo’s President Vjosa Osmani said that during Donald Trump’s presidency there was a growing interest from the United States in supporting stability and preventing a relapse of violence in the Western Balkans. This confirms the region’s commitment to maintaining peace and reducing security risks in the region.
“The Trump administration has shown heightened interest in promoting relations between Kosovo and Serbia and in supporting regional peace and stability at any price, so that no actions destabilizing our region are supported”
– Vjosa Osmani
Security Challenges and the Role of Allies
She also drew attention to the security challenges linked to Russia’s long-running efforts to destabilize the Western Balkans through Serbia, emphasizing the important role of Kosovo’s institutions, the continued NATO presence, and close cooperation with Western allies.
“As we work closely with our allies, our citizens have every reason to feel safe and secure”
– Vjosa Osmani
Osmani also stressed that Kosovo remains fully committed to the EU-facilitated dialogue for the normalization of relations with Serbia, while accusing Belgrade of blocking the implementation of the 2023 agreement on the development of good-neighborly relations.
“We have a problem with the Serbian side that never fulfills what it promises. I hope Brussels will be much clearer in actions, not just words, and will demand Serbia to fully fulfill its obligations”
– Vjosa Osmani
In the wake of events on December 28 in Kosovo, early parliamentary elections were held – the second time in a year. They were called after Prime Minister Albin Kurti and his Vetëvendosje party failed to form a government due to a lack of parliamentary support. Osmani expressed hope that the new government would be formed quickly.
According to preliminary data, the winning party is expected to secure about 56 seats (compared to 46 seats in the February elections). This leaves it short of the 61 seats needed to form a government in Kosovo’s 120-seat parliament. Kurti had previously sought the support of other non-Serbian parties to secure a governing majority.