Milivojevic: EU and US interests require resuming the dialogue, preconditions include the CSM and full KFOR functionality

Diplomat Zoran Milivojevic points out that it is in the interest of the EU and the US to renew the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, however, he emphasizes that, concerning Serbia, there are certain prerequisites for this, including de-escalation in the north, the return of KFOR to full functionality, and the beginning of the formation of the Community of Serb Municipalities.

Regarding the messages coming from Kosovo authorities that there will be no resumption of negotiations until Serbia is sanctioned for the events in Banjska since September 24, Milivojevic says for Kosovo Online that Brussels and Washington will insist on continuing the dialogue and returning to the Ohrid Agreement, that is, the European plan for the normalization of relations.

"It would be a significant success for the EU and an attempt to regain credibility if they returned to the dialogue on the Ohrid Agreement and if Serbia accepted to discuss its implementation, or in a way accepted to discuss the Community of Serb Municipalities as a package. The West will certainly insist on that," Milivojevic says.

When it comes to Pristina, he does not expect a change in the position of Kosovo authorities.

"They remain consistent, especially since they will now use the Banjska case as confirmation of their political platform regarding the situation in northern Kosovo. Furthermore, it serves as a confirmation of their statehood and recognition needs by Serbia," our interlocutor emphasizes.

He points out that there is no change in Serbia's stance either.

"Serbia is not in a position to trade, regardless of the pressure. Serbia is in favor of dialogue and believes that conditions for its resumption need to be provided. If we want meaningful talks, we must consider realpolitik. This means that, since there is an escalation on the ground, de-escalation is necessary. This involves the return of KFOR to full functionality and the Community of Serb Municipalities as a preliminary issue. This is roughly Serbia's position regarding the continuation of the dialogue. Serbia can discuss the Ohrid Agreement, but only on points that are uncontroversial for Serbia, those that do not imply de facto recognition," Milivojevic believes.