EU: We condemn the conflicts in the north initiated by the newly elected mayors' attempt to enter the municipal buildings

The European Union strongly condemns the clashes between the Kosovo police and demonstrators in the north of Kosovo, initiated by the attempt of the newly elected mayors to enter the municipal buildings, the spokesperson of the European Foreign Policy Service announced.

"We strongly deplore the attack on the patrols of the EU civilian mission in Kosovo, EULEX. EULEX must be allowed to carry out its mandate peacefully. All must take action to de-escalate the tense situation and immediately restore calm. The EU will not accept further unilateral or provocative actions. Preservation of peace and security on the ground should be a priority," the statement said.

It was also stated that the EU consistently points out that the recent extraordinary elections in the north of Kosovo do not offer a long-term political solution for the municipalities in which they were held.

"Such a solution can only be found through a genuine dialogue between all key actors, which include Kosovo, Serbia, and the Kosovo Serb community - with the help of the EU," the statement said.