Djuric with McGurk on increasingly difficult situation and systematic pressure on Serbs in Kosovo

Serbia’s Foreign Minister Marko Djuric met today with the new Head of the OSCE Mission in Kosovo, Gerard McGurk, to discuss the increasingly difficult situation in Kosovo and the systematic pressures being exerted on the Serbian population.

Djuric specifically pointed out, as he emphasized, the unlawful arrest of the Assistant Director of the Office for Kosovo and Metohija, Igor Popovic, describing the case as part of an organized and politically motivated campaign targeting representatives of Serbian institutions and all those who advocate peacefully and lawfully for the rights of the Serbian people in Kosovo.

Djuric also warned of the escalation of Pristina’s activities, including physical attacks, threats, home raids, all aimed at intimidating the Serbian community in Kosovo and creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity. These actions have led to the displacement of nearly 20 percent of the Serbian population from northern Kosovo in recent times, according to a statement by Serbia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Serbian Foreign Minister also noted that the Pristina authorities, by beginning construction of two bridges on the Ibar River, are further increasing pressure on the Serbian community. This move, he said, is perceived as a direct security threat to the predominantly Serbian population in the north.

Djuric stressed that Serbia remains committed to dialogue and the implementation of what was agreed upon in the Brussels Agreement. However, he also pointed out that Pristina, through its unilateral actions, is seriously undermining the process and has persistently avoided, for 12 years now, fulfilling its obligation to establish the Community of Serb Municipalities.

He called on the OSCE Mission to urgently take steps, in line with its mandate, to halt the escalation and ensure the protection of the fundamental rights and freedoms of the Serbian people.

The Minister reiterated that Serbia will continue to provide institutional, legal, and diplomatic support to its people, insisting on full implementation of international obligations that guarantee their safety, rights, and dignity.

Djuric congratulated the new Head of the OSCE Mission on assuming his post and expressed hope that his tenure will be marked by further strengthening of constructive cooperation.