Reeker on Dialogue: The U.S. has other priorities now, you cannot expect others to solve your problems

The United States has been involved in the Serbia-Kosovo dialogue for many years—and still is—but it now says it has other priorities, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Philip Reeker said in an interview for Kosovo Online. He emphasized that there are agreements between the two sides which have not been implemented and that work must be done on those, as no one else can be expected to solve their problems. Commenting on the parliamentary crisis in Pristina, Reeker called it “a shame for Kosovo” and said the people deserve better.

When asked whether a solution for the Kosovo issue is possible without U.S. involvement, Reeker said that dialogue exists, that implementation of agreements is essential, and that both sides must reflect on the future they want.

“America has been engaged in the region for a long time. What you’ve seen since Donald Trump came to power is ‘America First.’ There are many global challenges that the president and the secretary of state must face. Our embassies are there, and we will remain engaged,” Reeker said.

Regarding Kosovo, he pointed out that the dialogue is ongoing, that the European Union has made great efforts, and that the new EU Special Envoy, Peter Sorensen, is an excellent diplomat who offers real potential for progress.

“There are solutions—agreements that have been reached but not implemented. Work on those. Think for yourselves about the future you want,” Reeker said firmly.

In response to a statement that the dialogue has produced no results, he replied that this is not the fault of the United States.

“This is not the fault of the United States; it's your responsibility, and you need to consider what to do. If an agreement is reached, it must be respected. Or—come forward with new ideas. That’s diplomacy. You cannot rely on others to do everything for you. The U.S. has been involved for many years, and we’re not leaving—we’re simply saying we have other priorities,” Reeker stressed.

He recalled a number of agreements, especially from the period when he was directly involved in the process, supporting then-EU High Representative Catherine Ashton, who, he said, devoted significant time to achieving the Brussels Agreement.

“More than a decade has passed. You have channels in Brussels, and the opportunity to continue the work done by Lajčák and others through Sorensen. This is a chance to present ideas. But the key point is: you cannot expect someone else to solve your problems,” Reeker reiterated.

Speaking about U.S.-Serbia relations, he said that America wants good relations with all countries.

“We’ve maintained embassies. You have an ambassador appointed by President Trump, who is expected to succeed Christopher Hill. Serbia also has an ambassador in Washington, which is a good thing. I met with Foreign Minister Marko Djuric, and we continue the friendship we’ve nurtured for many years,” the U.S. diplomat said.

He noted there is significant potential for improving cooperation, especially in the private sector, adding that it is not solely up to governments to focus on fostering relations—ties should be built beyond the governmental level.

“There are real opportunities for Serbia to highlight its innovations and attract investment. That will be the key to long-term U.S.-Serbia relations,” Reeker said with confidence.

He often visits Belgrade and other parts of the region and observes what he calls “a certain dynamism,” along with longstanding challenges.

“Development takes time, but citizens of all countries must decide the direction they want to take. They must cooperate with their neighbors, then extend that cooperation across the region and throughout Europe. We’ve seen significant progress, but also persistent challenges. It’s time to shape your own future,” Reeker said.

Commenting on the parliamentary crisis in Kosovo, he emphasized that it is a disgrace.

“It’s truly a disgrace. I believe the people of Kosovo deserve better, as do all of us in the international community who have supported and sought a peaceful resolution to the Kosovo issue for the past 25 years, working to find a path, including through dialogue. The people deserve better. There must be a solution that ensures good governance, rule of law, and strong relations with neighbors in the region to enable progress,” Reeker concluded.

Asked about Kosovo-U.S. relations, he confirmed that support would continue.

“We have embassies in both countries. We have a long-standing relationship. The U.S. has supported Kosovo since its independence, and even before that in its efforts to find a solution. We’ve offered plans, directions, including through dialogue. We will continue doing so,” Reeker said in conclusion.