Krauss: Kosovo is a failed state, an example of corruption and crime, it has no place in the EU

Maximilian Krauss, a member of the Freedom Party of Austria (FPO) in the Vienna Assembly, advocates for halting further projects with Kosovo, particularly regarding European integration, stating that it is an example of corruption and crime and has no place in the EU.

"This is also in Austria's interest," Krauss emphasized in a statement to Kosovo Online.

According to him, the ruling Austrian People's Party (OVP) is misleading Austrians into believing that there is stability and great potential in Kosovo.

"Kosovo is a failed state that does not belong in the EU. The situation on the ground is questionable, especially in terms of security policy. The situation in the border region with North Macedonia and the position of the Serbian minority in northern Kosovo is not only uncertain but could also trigger a new explosion of the Balkan 'powder keg'," Krauss warned.

He also stated that granting visa liberalization for Kosovo was a serious mistake.

"Kosovo is an example of corruption, crime, and especially the smuggling of migrants into Austria. I fear that visa liberalization will be an additional incentive for the influx of illegal economic migrants and a mass exodus of Kosovo Albanians to Austria," Krauss added.

When asked why Austria is not more active in the Balkans, he said that question should be posed to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alexander Schallenberg.

"As in many other areas, unfortunately, our federal government prefers to follow the dictates of the EU rather than have the courage to make decisions that are best for Austria. We can see this regarding sanctions against Russia, which bring nothing. The war will continue, but our economy will be affected. It's like a cat biting its own tail," he explained.

Regarding the internal political situation in Austria, he said that the Social Democratic Party (SPO) had become a subject of ridicule following the scandal surrounding the election of its leader.

"I'm curious to see how they plan to emerge from the self-created chaos. But the truth is that the SPO only cares about itself, while we care about the population," Krauss added.

As he mentioned regarding the Serbian community, Serbs living in Austria have integrated, are working, and have become part of Austrian society.

"From our perspective, immigrants who are hardworking and contribute to society must be protected just like Austrians. I am convinced that the Serbian community has realized that only the FPO takes action and doesn't make empty promises. Of course, the FPO maintains regular and strong contacts with high representatives of the Serbian Orthodox Church, as well as numerous Serbian associations," Krauss concluded.