Milenkovic: I expect a more concrete reaction from KFOR, citizens in the north want the bridge to remain closed

Marko Milenkovic from the NGO "New Social Initiative" says that he expects KFOR to prevent the opening of the main bridge on the Ibar River if the Government of Kosovo unilaterally decides to do so and that this should not happen in the coming weeks. He adds that this time he expects a more concrete reaction from KFOR and that the mission should fulfill its mandate by ensuring a safe environment, primarily for the citizens in the north, but also for others.

If the bridge is opened, Milenkovic emphasizes that it will happen despite the clear opposition of the citizens living in northern Kosovo, not only Serbs but also those of other nationalities, as well as the opposition of the international community.

"So far, we have not had concrete reactions from the international community; when unilateral actions were taken, there was no concrete reaction from KFOR on the ground. This time, I expect a more concrete reaction from KFOR, to ensure that the bridge remains closed, which was primarily guaranteed through dialogue. We've heard that the international community is calling for dialogue to continue and for the bridge to be opened through dialogue. I expect KFOR to protect both the dialogue and the positions of international partners, to stand on the bridge and ensure it is not opened. It is encouraging that KFOR is still on the bridge, that it was there even on the day when testing was conducted, and that the number of their vehicles has increased," Milenkovic says.

He recalls the citizens' appeals on this issue, including the protest held by Serbs, and then the letter from more than 400 women clearly opposing the opening of the bridge, which was submitted to KFOR representatives yesterday.

"Thus, Serbs and other communities living in the north have made it clear that they do not want the bridge to be opened at this time, as it raises additional concerns primarily about safety, and that this issue is viewed primarily through that security aspect. From Pristina's perspective, it is a political act connected with the campaign ahead of the upcoming elections. We still don't have a clear position from the mayor of South Mitrovica on the opening of the bridge, but the Self-Determination movement is persistent in making it happen and earning additional points in the elections through this," Milenkovic concludes.