Serb List: KFOR and EULEX should increase presence in Serbian areas and ensure peace ahead of Hague judgment

The Serb List has called on KFOR and EULEX, in accordance with their respective mandates, to take all necessary measures to ensure peace, security and stability in Kosovo, particularly in the coming days as the judgment against the defendants in The Hague approaches.

“We believe it is necessary to increase the presence of international security missions in ethnically mixed areas, particularly in Serbian-majority areas south of the Ibar, in order to act preventively and avert any attempt to endanger citizens’ safety, provoke incidents or disturb public order and peace,” the Serb List said in a statement.

The party also expects KFOR and EULEX, within their respective competencies, to require the Kosovo Police to perform its duties professionally, responsibly and impartially, strictly in accordance with the law and with full respect for the rights and security of all citizens, regardless of their ethnicity.

“We particularly emphasize the need for enhanced preventive measures ahead of the judgment scheduled for September 16, in order to prevent any potential tensions, provocations or incidents that could jeopardize peace and stability on the ground,” the statement said.

The Serb List called on the Serbian people and all citizens to remain calm, composed and restrained, not to respond to any potential provocations, and to contribute to preserving peace and security through responsible conduct.

“We expect the international missions, through timely and responsible action, to demonstrate that they are prepared to fulfill the mandates entrusted to them and ensure the safety of all citizens, particularly in sensitive and ethnically mixed areas,” the statement concluded.

Asked by Kosovo Online whether it would increase its presence in Serbian areas in Kosovo on September 16, KFOR said that the mission continuously adjusted its presence to the security environment and operational requirements in order to remain effective at all times, but did not comment on specific operational measures.

Meanwhile, the Kosovo Police announced that it was planning security measures ahead of September 16 aimed at ensuring the safe management of public gatherings, maintaining public order and ensuring the normal flow of traffic.

Earlier today, the United States Embassy in Pristina issued an alert regarding possible demonstrations in several cities across Kosovo on September 16.

On Wednesday, the first-instance judgment against Hashim Thaci, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi and Rexhep Selimi will be delivered in The Hague on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity.