Kupchan: Kosovo risks being left on the sidelines; It needs strong U.S. and European support

American professor Charles Kupchan has stated that Kosovo risks being left on the sidelines, as Pristina's strategic dialogue with the United States remains suspended, emphasizing that diplomatic isolation is not in Kosovo's interest.

In an interview with Gazeta Express, Kupchan said that Albin Kurti is widely perceived in both the United States and the European Union as a political leader who has obstructed the normalization of relations with Serbia.

"Kosovo risks being left on the sidelines. Pristina's strategic dialogue with the United States has been suspended. Kosovo has experienced a prolonged period of political instability. In both the United States and Europe, Kurti is widely viewed as a leader who has hindered prospects for constructive dialogue and the eventual normalization of relations with Serbia. Diplomatic isolation is not in Kosovo's interest," he said.

According to Kupchan, Kosovo needs strong support from both the United States and Europe.

"Kosovo is a small country that requires strong support from the United States and Europe as it seeks prosperity, political stability, regional peace, and integration into Euro-Atlantic institutions. In the country's long-term interest, it is essential to maintain close ties with the United States and the European Union and to play a constructive role in the normalization of relations with Serbia," Kupchan said.

Commenting on the U.S.-Serbia Strategic Dialogue, the American professor described the process as a significant step forward in bilateral relations.

"The dialogue is also intended to strengthen Europe's energy security and reduce its dependence on Russian energy through the construction of the North–South Gas Corridor passing through Serbia. Critical minerals are also on the agenda, as Serbia possesses substantial lithium reserves. Defence cooperation and military modernization likewise form part of the dialogue," Kupchan noted.

He added that Belgrade would continue to maintain strong ties with both Russia and China.

"Serbia is highly skilled at engaging with all sides. The Strategic Dialogue with the United States represents a shift toward the West, but Belgrade will undoubtedly preserve its strong relations with Russia and China. Serbia seeks to play a greater role than its actual weight would suggest by pursuing a strategy under which it leans toward the West one day and toward the East the next," Kupchan concluded.