Pavkovic: Brussels used a “convenient way” to undermine the legitimacy of Kosovo’s current Government

Milos Pavkovic, Strategic Director at the Center for European Policy, stated that the EU’s decision not to meet with representatives of the Kosovo authorities reflects Brussels’ principled stance on upholding the rule of law, but also a “convenient way” to “undermine the legitimacy and all actions” of the government led by Albin Kurti.

“I would view this decision from the perspective of the rule of law. That is one of the EU’s fundamental values and principles. Considering that the Constitutional Court annulled several decisions of caretaker ministers because they simultaneously held parliamentary seats, the EU explicitly referred to those rulings in its statement, thereby questioning the legitimacy of these ministers and their decisions, and avoiding participation in the violation of Kosovo’s Constitution and laws,” Pavkovic told Kosovo Online.

In a letter from EU Mission Head Aivo Orav to the Government of Kosovo, it was made clear that until a new government is formed, no EU representative will attend meetings with the current caretaker cabinet.

Pavkovic added that the EU’s letter should also be understood in light of the “poor relations between the EU and Albin Kurti’s government.”

“This provides a good basis for such meetings not to take place. The EU sanctions imposed in 2023 remain in effect, so this is just another signal that relations remain at a low level and that the EU does not wish to maintain contacts with a government in resignation, at least until a new one is elected—regardless of who it may be,” Pavkovic emphasized.

The EU cited the failure to comply with the June 25, 2025 Supreme Court decision, which Pavkovic described as a “convenient way” for Brussels to react.

“It was convenient for them to respond in this way, and through it they sought to undermine the legitimacy of the current government and all the actions it is undertaking,” the analyst noted.

He believes the EU’s reaction refers above all to the construction of two new bridges linking South and North Mitrovica.

“This was a unilateral move, a show of defiance by Albin Kurti’s government against the European Union and international partners. In my view, the EU’s decision was primarily a response to the construction of the bridges, but taken more broadly, in the context of already poor relations, its adoption comes as no surprise,” Pavkovic said.

However, he doubts this form of “pressure” will significantly influence the pace of forming a new government.

“Depending on how internal political dynamics unfold, it could either accelerate or delay the process. Above all, it will depend on the inter-party negotiations between Self-Determination and other Albanian parties. This decision mainly sends a message that the EU does not regard Albin Kurti as a significant partner, and that could complicate the formation of a new government or Self-Determination’s ability to remain in power,” Pavkovic concluded.