Ace Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic created a stir at the going French Open tournament after he wrote a 'controversial' message on the lens of a camera following his first round victory.

The message, written in Serbian, read, "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia. Stop the violence.” The 36-year-old has now drawn flak from the Kosovo Tennis Federation which, if an English translation of their official statement is to be believed, called Djokovic a 'fugitive athlete.'

Kosovo Tennis Federation, in a statement issued on social media, said that "the statement made by such public figure on the occasion of world events such as French Open directly result in rise of tension between the two countries, Serbia and Kosovo."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-second-seed-daniil-medvedev-stunned-by-brazils-thiago-wild-in-first-round-598459">French Open: Second seed Daniil Medvedev STUNNED by Brazil's Thiago Wild in first round</a>

The federation also asked 'fugitive athletes and sportsmen to refrain from misuse their position in spots for political purpose,' going by a translation of the statement. 
 
Have a look at the official statement here:

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Apart from a call to stop the violence, Djokovic, while defending his actions, said Monday it's the least he could do, adding, "I feel responsibility as a public figure…as well as a son of a man who was born in Kosovo.”

The Kosovo side had sought an investigation, but French Tennis Federation, the organiser of French Open tournament, said, “No official Grand Slam rules on what players can or cannot say. The FFT will not be making any statement or taking any stance on this matter.”

Djokovic appeared even ready for retribution, if any. “I don’t know if someone will punish me or something like that, but I would do it again,” he had said following his first-round victory.

There have been recent ethnic clashes in northern Kosovo - with border alongside Serbia and a place with decent Serb population - considered minority in Kosovo, and police and NATO peacekeepers.

The issue at heart is Kosovo - with bigger population of Albanese people, claiming independence from Serbia in 2008 and Belgrade's refusal of its acknowledgement.

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Ace Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic created a stir at the going French Open tournament after he wrote a 'controversial' message on the lens of a camera following his first round victory.

Ace Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic created a stir at the going French Open tournament after he wrote a 'controversial' message on the lens of a camera following his first round victory. The message, written in Serbian, read, "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia. Stop the violence.” The 36-year-old has now drawn flak from the Kosovo Tennis Federation which, if an English translation of their official statement is to be believed, called Djokovic a 'fugitive athlete.' Kosovo Tennis Federation, in a statement issued on social media, said that "the statement made by such public figure on the occasion of world events such as French Open directly result in rise of tension between the two countries, Serbia and Kosovo." Also Read: French Open: Second seed Daniil Medvedev STUNNED by Brazil's Thiago Wild in first round The federation also asked 'fugitive athletes and sportsmen to refrain from misuse their position in spots for political purpose,' going by a translation of the statement. Have a look at the official statement here: × Apart from a call to stop the violence, Djokovic, while defending his actions, said Monday it's the least he could do, adding, "I feel responsibility as a public figure…as well as a son of a man who was born in Kosovo.” The Kosovo side had sought an investigation, but French Tennis Federation, the organiser of French Open tournament, said, “No official Grand Slam rules on what players can or cannot say. The FFT will not be making any statement or taking any stance on this matter.” Djokovic appeared even ready for retribution, if any. “I don’t know if someone will punish me or something like that, but I would do it again,” he had said following his first-round victory. There have been recent ethnic clashes in northern Kosovo - with border alongside Serbia and a place with decent Serb population - considered minority in Kosovo, and police and NATO peacekeepers. The issue at heart is Kosovo - with bigger population of Albanese people, claiming independence from Serbia in 2008 and Belgrade's refusal of its acknowledgement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Did Kosovo Tennis call Novak Djokovic a 'fugitive' over 'controversial' message at French Open?

The West-backed North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) said it will deploy additional 700 troops to the violence-hit Kosovo a day after 30 of its peacekeeping soldiers and more than 50 ethnic Serbian protesters were injured in the clashes.

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The NATO peacekeepers were able to secure a town hall in Zvečan as the situation remained tense.

“We have decided to deploy 700 more troops from the operational reserve force for Western Balkans,” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters in Oslo on Tuesday, after holding talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, reports AP news agency.

Stoltenberg said that the 30-nation&nbsp;alliance would also “put an additional battalion of reserve forces on high readiness so they can also be deployed if needed. These are prudent steps.”&nbsp;

A battalion typically ranges from 300 to around 1,000 troops. The NATO peacekeeping mission, Kosovo Force (KFOR), currently consists of almost 3,800 troops.

The crisis dates back to April when Kosovo Serbs boycotted local elections, allowing ethnic Albanians to take control of local councils with a turnout of less than 3.5 per cent—– a move that led the US and its allies to rebuke Kosovo’s leaders on Friday.

<h2 dir="ltr">NATO chief calls for calm</h2>

On Monday, the KFOR soldiers prevented a group of ethnic Serbian demonstrators from entering the municipality building in Zvečan town where clashes had erupted, raising fears of instability and flareup in the Balkan region amidst increased Western efforts to resolve a long-standing dispute.

NATO chief condemned the violence, saying that “such attacks are unacceptable and must stop.” Issuing a stern warning, Stoltenberg said that NATO troops “will take all necessary actions to maintain a safe and secure environment for all citizens in Kosovo.”

He urged both sides to de-escalate and refrain from “further irresponsible behaviour,” and asked them to return to EU-backed talks on improving relations.

<h2 dir="ltr">West, Russia-China take different stand</h2>

Kosovo was once part of Serbia. But in 2008, it broke away from the region and formed its own sovereign country.&nbsp; Ethnic Albanians make up most of the population, but Kosovo has a restive Serb minority in the north of the country bordering Serbia.

The United States and many European nations have recognised Kosovo’s independence, while Russia and China have sided with Belgrade.

On Tuesday, China extended its support to Serbia and backed its efforts to “safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity”, whereas Moscow reiterated its criticism of Western policies in the dispute.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The West-backed North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) said it will deploy additional 700 troops to the violence-hit Kosovo a day after 30 of its peacekeeping soldiers and more than 50 ethnic Serbian protesters were injured in the clashes.

The West-backed North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) said it will deploy additional 700 troops to the violence-hit Kosovo a day after 30 of its peacekeeping soldiers and more than 50 ethnic Serbian protesters were injured in the clashes. The NATO peacekeepers were able to secure a town hall in Zvečan as the situation remained tense. “We have decided to deploy 700 more troops from the operational reserve force for Western Balkans,” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told reporters in Oslo on Tuesday, after holding talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, reports AP news agency. Stoltenberg said that the 30-nation alliance would also “put an additional battalion of reserve forces on high readiness so they can also be deployed if needed. These are prudent steps.” A battalion typically ranges from 300 to around 1,000 troops. The NATO peacekeeping mission, Kosovo Force (KFOR), currently consists of almost 3,800 troops. The crisis dates back to April when Kosovo Serbs boycotted local elections, allowing ethnic Albanians to take control of local councils with a turnout of less than 3.5 per cent—– a move that led the US and its allies to rebuke Kosovo’s leaders on Friday. NATO chief calls for calm On Monday, the KFOR soldiers prevented a group of ethnic Serbian demonstrators from entering the municipality building in Zvečan town where clashes had erupted, raising fears of instability and flareup in the Balkan region amidst increased Western efforts to resolve a long-standing dispute. NATO chief condemned the violence, saying that “such attacks are unacceptable and must stop.” Issuing a stern warning, Stoltenberg said that NATO troops “will take all necessary actions to maintain a safe and secure environment for all citizens in Kosovo.” He urged both sides to de-escalate and refrain from “further irresponsible behaviour,” and asked them to return to EU-backed talks on improving relations. West, Russia-China take different stand Kosovo was once part of Serbia. But in 2008, it broke away from the region and formed its own sovereign country. Ethnic Albanians make up most of the population, but Kosovo has a restive Serb minority in the north of the country bordering Serbia. The United States and many European nations have recognised Kosovo’s independence, while Russia and China have sided with Belgrade. On Tuesday, China extended its support to Serbia and backed its efforts to “safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity”, whereas Moscow reiterated its criticism of Western policies in the dispute. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

NATO to send 700 more troops to quell violence in Kosovo

NATO General Secretary Jens Stoltenberg has announced the deployment of 700 additional troops to Kosovo. A day after the clashes in the coast of the city of Zvekan, left 30 NATO peacekeepers and 52 Serbian demonstrators injured.

Clashes in Serbia: NATO to deploy 700 additional troops to Kosovo after 30 NATO soldiers injured

The United States on Tuesday (May 30) slammed Kosovo for forcibly trying to install ethnic Albanian mayors in the towns of Kosovo. The move, vehemently opposed by local ethnic Serbs, who make majority in these towns and had boycotted the elections, led to clashes with NATO soldiers. About 30 soldiers were injured. The election to choose the mayors, boycotted by Serbs had seen a paltry voter turnout of 3.5 per cent. Serbs here do not see ethnic Albanian mayors to be their real representatives.

The US expelled Kosovo from an ongoing US-led military exercise in Europe. US Ambassador in Kosovan capital Pristina, Jeffrey Hovenier made the announcement.

"For Kosovo, this exercise is over," Hovenier said in comments to local media in Pristina.

US is the among the biggest international backers of Kosovo and had supported its independence from Serbia in 2008. The expulsion from military exercise is being seen as the first US step to indicate Kosovo that all is&nbsp;not well in the current scenario.

The US ambassador also threatened Kosovo with an unprecedented move to end diplomatic support and stop international lobbying for recognition of the Balkan nation.

Serbia's allies, Russia and China have refused to recognise Kosovo so far. This had kept the nation from having a seat at the United Nations.

"You don’t find a lot of enthusiasm on the part of the United States to respond to Kosovo’s other interests, such as engaging in non-recognisers or working actively to advance Kosovo’s European or Euro-Atlantic trajectory," Hovenier said.

The US ambassador added that "the actions taken by the government of Kosovo...have created this crisis atmosphere in the north".

"We have asked prime minister Kurti very directly to take immediate steps to achieve de-escalation in the north. He has not been responsive to those requests," Hovenier said.

<h2>The clashes</h2>

Kosovan government, on Monday sought to install the ethnic Albanian mayors using police force. The clashes&nbsp;erupted soon. NATO troops had to intervene and control the crowd using shields and baton. Molotov cocktails were hurled at the NATO troops.&nbsp;

A total of 30 peacekeepers — 11 Italians and 19 Hungarians — were wounded in the clashes, according to a KFOR press release.

Among the protesters, 52 were injured, three of them "seriously", while five Serbs were arrested for taking part in the clashes. &nbsp;

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The United States on Tuesday (May 30) slammed Kosovo for forcibly trying to install ethnic Albanian mayors in the towns of Kosovo. The move, vehemently opposed by local ethnic Serbs, who make majority in these towns and had boycotted the elections, led to clashes with NATO soldiers.

The United States on Tuesday (May 30) slammed Kosovo for forcibly trying to install ethnic Albanian mayors in the towns of Kosovo. The move, vehemently opposed by local ethnic Serbs, who make majority in these towns and had boycotted the elections, led to clashes with NATO soldiers. About 30 soldiers were injured. The election to choose the mayors, boycotted by Serbs had seen a paltry voter turnout of 3.5 per cent. Serbs here do not see ethnic Albanian mayors to be their real representatives. The US expelled Kosovo from an ongoing US-led military exercise in Europe. US Ambassador in Kosovan capital Pristina, Jeffrey Hovenier made the announcement. "For Kosovo, this exercise is over," Hovenier said in comments to local media in Pristina. US is the among the biggest international backers of Kosovo and had supported its independence from Serbia in 2008. The expulsion from military exercise is being seen as the first US step to indicate Kosovo that all is not well in the current scenario. The US ambassador also threatened Kosovo with an unprecedented move to end diplomatic support and stop international lobbying for recognition of the Balkan nation. Serbia's allies, Russia and China have refused to recognise Kosovo so far. This had kept the nation from having a seat at the United Nations. "You don’t find a lot of enthusiasm on the part of the United States to respond to Kosovo’s other interests, such as engaging in non-recognisers or working actively to advance Kosovo’s European or Euro-Atlantic trajectory," Hovenier said. The US ambassador added that "the actions taken by the government of Kosovo...have created this crisis atmosphere in the north". "We have asked prime minister Kurti very directly to take immediate steps to achieve de-escalation in the north. He has not been responsive to those requests," Hovenier said. The clashes Kosovan government, on Monday sought to install the ethnic Albanian mayors using police force. The clashes erupted soon. NATO troops had to intervene and control the crowd using shields and baton. Molotov cocktails were hurled at the NATO troops. A total of 30 peacekeepers — 11 Italians and 19 Hungarians — were wounded in the clashes, according to a KFOR press release. Among the protesters, 52 were injured, three of them "seriously", while five Serbs were arrested for taking part in the clashes. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US expels Kosovo from military exercises after ethnic Serb clashes leave NATO troops injured

Kosovo Olympic authorities have asked the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to open disciplinary proceedings against Novak&nbsp;Djokovic, accusing the Serbian of stirring up political tension by saying "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia" at the French Open. Djokovic&nbsp;wrote the message on a camera lens following his first-round win on Monday, the same day that 30 NATO peacekeeping troops were hurt in clashes with Serb protesters in the Kosovo town of Zvecan, where&nbsp;Djokovic's father grew up.

Serbian authorities said 52 protesters were wounded in the clashes. The violence erupted after ethnic Albanian mayors took office in northern Kosovo's Serb-majority area following elections that were boycotted by the Serbs. The world number three later said he was against any kind of conflict but defended his statement and described Kosovo's situation as a "precedent".

"Novak&nbsp;Djokovic&nbsp;has yet again promoted the Serbian nationalists' propaganda and used the sports platform to do so," Ismet Krasniqi, president of Kosovo's Olympic Committee (KOK), said in a statement. "The further post-match statements made by such a public figure without any feeling of remorse, directly result in raising the level of tension and violence between the two countries," he added, urging the IOC to investigate "by opening disciplinary proceedings against the athlete."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fugitive-kosovo-tennis-calls-out-serb-novak-djokovic-for-controversial-message-at-french-open-598614">Did Kosovo Tennis call Novak Djokovic a 'fugitive' over 'controversial' message at French Open?</a>

France's Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera, whose country will host the Summer Olympics in Paris next year, said&nbsp;Djokovic's message was "not appropriate, clearly". "There is a principle of neutrality for the field of play. When you carry messages about defending human rights, messages that bring people together around universal values, a sports person is free to express them," she told French television. "But in this case, it was a message that is very activist, that is very political. You shouldn't get involved, especially in the current circumstances, and it shouldn't happen again."

Djokovic, chasing a record 23rd Grand Slam title, has said he was not holding back and would do it again. He is set to play his second-round match later on Wednesday against Hungary's Marton Fucsovics. The IOC did not immediately respond to a request for comment. On Tuesday, Kosovo's tennis federation said&nbsp;Djokovic's comments were "regrettable", accusing him of using his status as a well-known personality to stir tensions. NATO, which has some 4,000 soldiers currently in Kosovo, will send 700 extra troops to curb violence and put another battalion on high alert as unrest intensifies.

<h2>Svitolina backs Djokovic</h2>

"We are living in the free world, so why not say your opinion on something?," said Svitolina, who reached the third round with a 2-6, 6-3, 6-1 win over Storm Hunter on Wednesday.

"I feel like if you stand for something, you think that this is the way, you should say.

"I mean, if you are with a friend sitting, talking, you're going to say your opinion, he is going to say his opinion. So why not?" added Svitolina.

Kosovo Olympic authorities have asked the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to open disciplinary proceedings against Novak Djokovic, accusing the Serbian of stirring up political tension by saying "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia" at the French Open.

Kosovo Olympic authorities have asked the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to open disciplinary proceedings against Novak Djokovic, accusing the Serbian of stirring up political tension by saying "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia" at the French Open. Djokovic wrote the message on a camera lens following his first-round win on Monday, the same day that 30 NATO peacekeeping troops were hurt in clashes with Serb protesters in the Kosovo town of Zvecan, where Djokovic's father grew up. Serbian authorities said 52 protesters were wounded in the clashes. The violence erupted after ethnic Albanian mayors took office in northern Kosovo's Serb-majority area following elections that were boycotted by the Serbs. The world number three later said he was against any kind of conflict but defended his statement and described Kosovo's situation as a "precedent". "Novak Djokovic has yet again promoted the Serbian nationalists' propaganda and used the sports platform to do so," Ismet Krasniqi, president of Kosovo's Olympic Committee (KOK), said in a statement. "The further post-match statements made by such a public figure without any feeling of remorse, directly result in raising the level of tension and violence between the two countries," he added, urging the IOC to investigate "by opening disciplinary proceedings against the athlete." Also Read: Did Kosovo Tennis call Novak Djokovic a 'fugitive' over 'controversial' message at French Open? France's Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera, whose country will host the Summer Olympics in Paris next year, said Djokovic's message was "not appropriate, clearly". "There is a principle of neutrality for the field of play. When you carry messages about defending human rights, messages that bring people together around universal values, a sports person is free to express them," she told French television. "But in this case, it was a message that is very activist, that is very political. You shouldn't get involved, especially in the current circumstances, and it shouldn't happen again." Djokovic, chasing a record 23rd Grand Slam title, has said he was not holding back and would do it again. He is set to play his second-round match later on Wednesday against Hungary's Marton Fucsovics. The IOC did not immediately respond to a request for comment. On Tuesday, Kosovo's tennis federation said Djokovic's comments were "regrettable", accusing him of using his status as a well-known personality to stir tensions. NATO, which has some 4,000 soldiers currently in Kosovo, will send 700 extra troops to curb violence and put another battalion on high alert as unrest intensifies. Svitolina backs Djokovic "We are living in the free world, so why not say your opinion on something?," said Svitolina, who reached the third round with a 2-6, 6-3, 6-1 win over Storm Hunter on Wednesday. "I feel like if you stand for something, you think that this is the way, you should say. "I mean, if you are with a friend sitting, talking, you're going to say your opinion, he is going to say his opinion. So why not?" added Svitolina.

Kosovo Olympic Committee seeks IOC disciplinary action against Serbian star Novak Djokovic

Kosovo remains on edge amid continuous clashes between Serbs and NATO forces. The Serbian President has put his army to the highest level of combat alert. The European Union top diplomat and Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell has condemned the violence in the North of Kosovo saying that it is absolutely unacceptable and is completely dangerous.

Kosovo clashes: The Serbian army was put on high combat alert

Around 25 of NATO-led peacekeepers were injured on&nbsp;Monday (May 29) as they clashed with ethnic Serb protesters in north Kosovo. The protesters were demanding removal of ethnic Albanian mayors who were elected in recent elections in northern Kosovo. Serbs in Kosovo had boycotted the elections which took place in northern Kosovan towns. This allowed ethnic Albanians to take control of local councils. The turnout for elections was a minuscule 3.5 per cent.

The Serbian president has put the army on highest level of combat alert.

Last week, Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti officially installed the mayors. He defied calls from the EU and the US to ease the tension. Both, the EU and the US had supported Kosovo's independence from Serbia in 2008.

Watch | Serbian army on combat alert

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Earlier on Monday, groups of Serbs gathered in front of the municipal building in the Serb-majority town of Zvecan and tried to force their way into the building.

AFP reported that the police responded with tear gas and pushed the protesters back as they tried to enter the building.

Many Serbs are demanding withdrawal of Kosovo police forces. Presence of these forces in northern regions of Kosovo has for a long time caused resistance. Serbs do not consider ethnic Albanian mayors to be their true representatives.

<h2>Molotov cocktails hurled at NATO peacekeepers</h2>

<img alt="Kosovo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5e0fd580-a982-409f-bdb2-3e728c669163" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/molotov.jpg" />

NATO-led peacekeepers in the KFOR mission at first attempted to separate protesters from the police. But later they used their shields and batons to disperse the crowd.

Several protesters retaliated&nbsp;by hurling rocks, bottles and Molotov cocktails at the soldiers, but were quickly repelled a few hundred meters away from the Zvecan municipal building.

"The protesters, using violence and throwing tear gas, tried to cross the security cordons and make a forced entry into the municipality facility," Kosovo police said in a statement as reported by AFP.

"Police were forced to use legal means, such as (pepper) spray, to stop the protesters and bring the situation under control."

KFOR condemned the violence.

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"While countering the most active fringes of the crowd, several soldiers of the Italian and Hungarian KFOR contingent were the subject of unprovoked attacks and sustained trauma wounds with fractures and burns due to the explosion of incendiary devices," it said in a statement.

<h2>Kosovo blames Serbia</h2>

Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani lashed out at Serbian President Aleksander Vucic and alleged that Serbia was trying to destabilise Kosovo.

"Serb illegal structures turned into criminal gangs have attacked Kosovo police, KFOR (peacekeeping) officers &amp; journalists. Those who carry out Vucic's orders to destabilise the north of Kosovo, must face justice," Osmani tweeted.

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Serb illegal structures turned into criminal gangs have attacked Kosovo police, KFOR officers &amp; journalists. 
 
These unacceptable acts of violence should be condemned by all. Those who carry out Vucic's orders to destabilise the north of Kosovo, must face justice.
— Vjosa Osmani (@VjosaOsmaniPRKS) <a href="https://twitter.com/VjosaOsmaniPRKS/status/1663218288011124740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Kosovo unilaterally declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Serbia's allies Russia and China have refused recognition. This has prevented Kosovo from having a seat at United Nations.

Ethnic Serbs, especially those in the northern parts of Kosovo have remained largely loyal to Serbia. In this region, they make up the majority and oppose any move by Kosovo to strengthen its hold.

KFOR said it had bolstered its presence in northern Kosovo following the latest developments and urged Belgrade and Pristina to engage in an EU-led dialogue to reduce tensions.

"We call on all sides to refrain from actions that could inflame tensions or cause escalation," KFOR said in a statement. 
Police had already used tear gas Friday to disperse Serbs in northern Kosovo who protested the installation of the mayors.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Around 25 of NATO-led peacekeepers were injured on Monday (May 29) as they clashed with ethnic Serb protesters in north Kosovo. The protesters were demanding removal of ethnic Albanian mayors who were elected in recent elections in northern Kosovo.

Around 25 of NATO-led peacekeepers were injured on Monday (May 29) as they clashed with ethnic Serb protesters in north Kosovo. The protesters were demanding removal of ethnic Albanian mayors who were elected in recent elections in northern Kosovo. Serbs in Kosovo had boycotted the elections which took place in northern Kosovan towns. This allowed ethnic Albanians to take control of local councils. The turnout for elections was a minuscule 3.5 per cent. The Serbian president has put the army on highest level of combat alert. Last week, Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti officially installed the mayors. He defied calls from the EU and the US to ease the tension. Both, the EU and the US had supported Kosovo's independence from Serbia in 2008. Watch | Serbian army on combat alert × Earlier on Monday, groups of Serbs gathered in front of the municipal building in the Serb-majority town of Zvecan and tried to force their way into the building. AFP reported that the police responded with tear gas and pushed the protesters back as they tried to enter the building. Many Serbs are demanding withdrawal of Kosovo police forces. Presence of these forces in northern regions of Kosovo has for a long time caused resistance. Serbs do not consider ethnic Albanian mayors to be their true representatives. Molotov cocktails hurled at NATO peacekeepers NATO-led peacekeepers in the KFOR mission at first attempted to separate protesters from the police. But later they used their shields and batons to disperse the crowd. Several protesters retaliated by hurling rocks, bottles and Molotov cocktails at the soldiers, but were quickly repelled a few hundred meters away from the Zvecan municipal building. "The protesters, using violence and throwing tear gas, tried to cross the security cordons and make a forced entry into the municipality facility," Kosovo police said in a statement as reported by AFP. "Police were forced to use legal means, such as (pepper) spray, to stop the protesters and bring the situation under control." KFOR condemned the violence. "While countering the most active fringes of the crowd, several soldiers of the Italian and Hungarian KFOR contingent were the subject of unprovoked attacks and sustained trauma wounds with fractures and burns due to the explosion of incendiary devices," it said in a statement. Kosovo blames Serbia Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani lashed out at Serbian President Aleksander Vucic and alleged that Serbia was trying to destabilise Kosovo. "Serb illegal structures turned into criminal gangs have attacked Kosovo police, KFOR (peacekeeping) officers & journalists. Those who carry out Vucic's orders to destabilise the north of Kosovo, must face justice," Osmani tweeted. Serb illegal structures turned into criminal gangs have attacked Kosovo police, KFOR officers & journalists. These unacceptable acts of violence should be condemned by all. Those who carry out Vucic's orders to destabilise the north of Kosovo, must face justice. — Vjosa Osmani (@VjosaOsmaniPRKS) May 29, 2023 × Kosovo unilaterally declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Serbia's allies Russia and China have refused recognition. This has prevented Kosovo from having a seat at United Nations. Ethnic Serbs, especially those in the northern parts of Kosovo have remained largely loyal to Serbia. In this region, they make up the majority and oppose any move by Kosovo to strengthen its hold. KFOR said it had bolstered its presence in northern Kosovo following the latest developments and urged Belgrade and Pristina to engage in an EU-led dialogue to reduce tensions. "We call on all sides to refrain from actions that could inflame tensions or cause escalation," KFOR said in a statement. Police had already used tear gas Friday to disperse Serbs in northern Kosovo who protested the installation of the mayors. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Kosovo: NATO troops clash with ethnic Serb protesters, 25 soldiers injured

On Monday (May 29), former world number one Novak Djokovic eased past debutant Aleksandar Kovacevic in the first round of the French Open 2023 edition. Squaring off with the newcomer, Djokovic risked controversy by sharing a message about Kosovo and urging to stop the violence.&nbsp;The 22-time Grand Slam champion shared a message for one and all as he wrote on a camera lens in Serbian, stating, "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia. Stop the violence."

It is to be noted that the incident happened amid rising tensions in Kosovo. On Monday, clashes broke out between Serb protesters and NATO peacekeeping soldiers -- defending three town halls in northern Kosovo -- which led to as many as 25 soldiers being injured. Thus, Djokovic joined in and gave a special message for his countrymen after a winning start at the Roland Garros.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2023-novak-djokovic-opens-campaign-with-straight-set-win-over-philippe-chatrier-597995">French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic opens campaign with straight set win over Aleksandar Kovacevic</a>

<h2 data-testid="paragraph-1">'My stance is clear: I am against wars, violence and any kind of conflict, as I’ve always stated publicly'</h2>

After his match, Djokovic told a news briefing, "As a son of a man born in Kosovo, I feel the need to give my support to our people and to the entire Serbia. My stance is clear: I am against wars, violence and any kind of conflict, as I’ve always stated publicly. I empathise with all people, but the situation with Kosovo is a precedent in international law."

The French tennis federation (FFT), which organises the French Open, reacted to Djokovic's message and told Reuters, "No official Grand Slam rules on what players can or cannot say. The FFT will not be making any statement or taking any stance on this matter."

Djokovic will now lock horns with Hungary's Marton&nbsp;Fucsovics in the second round on Wednesday (May 31). He is expected to go the distance in 2023's second Grand Slam tournament and compete for the mega title along with No. 1 ranked Carlos Alcaraz.&nbsp;

On Monday (May 29), former world number one Novak Djokovic eased past debutant Aleksandar Kovacevic in the first round of the French Open 2023 edition. Squaring off with the newcomer, Djokovic risked controversy by sharing a message about Kosovo and urging to stop the violence.

On Monday (May 29), former world number one Novak Djokovic eased past debutant Aleksandar Kovacevic in the first round of the French Open 2023 edition. Squaring off with the newcomer, Djokovic risked controversy by sharing a message about Kosovo and urging to stop the violence. The 22-time Grand Slam champion shared a message for one and all as he wrote on a camera lens in Serbian, stating, "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia. Stop the violence." It is to be noted that the incident happened amid rising tensions in Kosovo. On Monday, clashes broke out between Serb protesters and NATO peacekeeping soldiers -- defending three town halls in northern Kosovo -- which led to as many as 25 soldiers being injured. Thus, Djokovic joined in and gave a special message for his countrymen after a winning start at the Roland Garros. Also Read: French Open 2023: Novak Djokovic opens campaign with straight set win over Aleksandar Kovacevic 'My stance is clear: I am against wars, violence and any kind of conflict, as I’ve always stated publicly' After his match, Djokovic told a news briefing, "As a son of a man born in Kosovo, I feel the need to give my support to our people and to the entire Serbia. My stance is clear: I am against wars, violence and any kind of conflict, as I’ve always stated publicly. I empathise with all people, but the situation with Kosovo is a precedent in international law." The French tennis federation (FFT), which organises the French Open, reacted to Djokovic's message and told Reuters, "No official Grand Slam rules on what players can or cannot say. The FFT will not be making any statement or taking any stance on this matter." Djokovic will now lock horns with Hungary's Marton Fucsovics in the second round on Wednesday (May 31). He is expected to go the distance in 2023's second Grand Slam tournament and compete for the mega title along with No. 1 ranked Carlos Alcaraz.

Novak Djokovic shares message for violence-hit Kosovo after first-round win in French Open

When he stated on Monday that "Kosovo is the heart of Serbia," Novak Djokovic courted controversy. After confrontations erupted in northern Kosovo amid ethnic tensions, "Stop the violence" was broadcast on a camera at the French Open. After defeating Aleksandar Kovacevic in the opening round of Roland Garros on the iconic Philippe Chatrier Court, the tennis prodigy from Belgrade penned the statement in Serbian. "Kosovo is our cradle, our fortress, and the epicentre of the things that matter most to our nation... The 36-year-old Djokovic told Serbian media during the tournament, "There are numerous reasons why I typed it on the camera.

Djokovic writes Kosovo is heart of Serbia on Camera

Police had to use tear gas to disperse Serbs who had gathered on Friday (May 26) in front of municipal buildings in northern Kosovo. The police had to take action after&nbsp;helping&nbsp;ethnic Albanian mayors assume their posts following controversial elections. The ethnic Serb minority in Kosovo had boycotted the local elections in April. This allowed ethnic Albanians to take control of the local councils in spite of a very low voter turnout of 3.5 per cent.

Serb residents clashed with the police in the Serb-majority town of Zvecan. The crowd had rallied at the sound of an alarm which is commonly used in response to the presence of Kosovo police. The residents were eventually pushed back.

Many videos of the incident had been posted online. Gunshots and shock bombs could be heard in those.

Around 10 people suffered minor injuries. Ambulances arrived at the scene. Those injured were affected by "shock bombs and tear gas" and they also had "visible facial injuries" according to Danica Radomirovic, deputy head of the local hospital.&nbsp;She was quoted by the local media.

Watch | Thousands protest against violence in Serbia for third time in a month

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Five police officers sustained slight injuries from "heavy objects and shock bombs" that were thrown in their direction, Kosovo police said.

"Material damage was also caused to four official vehicles. One of them was set on fire... Gunshots were also heard nearby," Kosovo police added.

AFP said that Kosovo police confirmed&nbsp;they were escorting newly elected mayors into their workplaces.&nbsp;

<h2>Tensions persist</h2>

RTS, a Serbian state-run broadcaster, reported that the police used tear gas in Zubin Potok and Leposavic municipalities.

Local ethnic Serbs have begun to erect roadblocks in Leposavic as a sign of protest at the events, RTS reported.

Neighbouring Serbia placed its army on high alert and was ordered to move towards the Kosovo border, Serbian defence minister told local media.&nbsp;

There are frequent bouts of unrest in Kosovo's northern districts, home to many ethnic Serbs, who have remained loyal to Belgrade and never accepted Kosovo's unilateral declaration of independence from its neighbour in 2008.

It is estimated that about 120,000 Serbs live in Kosovo. The population is mainly present in four northern districts.

Belgrade backed the local election boycott in April. It is pushing for an "association of Serb municipalities" -- a form of autonomy for the Serb minority in Kosovo, where the majority of the 1.8 million inhabitants are ethnic Albanian.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Police had to use tear gas to disperse Serbs who had gathered on Friday (May 26) in front of municipal buildings in northern Kosovo. The police had to take action after helping ethnic Albanian mayors assume their posts following controversial elections.

Police had to use tear gas to disperse Serbs who had gathered on Friday (May 26) in front of municipal buildings in northern Kosovo. The police had to take action after helping ethnic Albanian mayors assume their posts following controversial elections. The ethnic Serb minority in Kosovo had boycotted the local elections in April. This allowed ethnic Albanians to take control of the local councils in spite of a very low voter turnout of 3.5 per cent. Serb residents clashed with the police in the Serb-majority town of Zvecan. The crowd had rallied at the sound of an alarm which is commonly used in response to the presence of Kosovo police. The residents were eventually pushed back. Many videos of the incident had been posted online. Gunshots and shock bombs could be heard in those. Around 10 people suffered minor injuries. Ambulances arrived at the scene. Those injured were affected by "shock bombs and tear gas" and they also had "visible facial injuries" according to Danica Radomirovic, deputy head of the local hospital. She was quoted by the local media. Watch | Thousands protest against violence in Serbia for third time in a month × Five police officers sustained slight injuries from "heavy objects and shock bombs" that were thrown in their direction, Kosovo police said. "Material damage was also caused to four official vehicles. One of them was set on fire... Gunshots were also heard nearby," Kosovo police added. AFP said that Kosovo police confirmed they were escorting newly elected mayors into their workplaces. Tensions persist RTS, a Serbian state-run broadcaster, reported that the police used tear gas in Zubin Potok and Leposavic municipalities. Local ethnic Serbs have begun to erect roadblocks in Leposavic as a sign of protest at the events, RTS reported. Neighbouring Serbia placed its army on high alert and was ordered to move towards the Kosovo border, Serbian defence minister told local media. There are frequent bouts of unrest in Kosovo's northern districts, home to many ethnic Serbs, who have remained loyal to Belgrade and never accepted Kosovo's unilateral declaration of independence from its neighbour in 2008. It is estimated that about 120,000 Serbs live in Kosovo. The population is mainly present in four northern districts. Belgrade backed the local election boycott in April. It is pushing for an "association of Serb municipalities" -- a form of autonomy for the Serb minority in Kosovo, where the majority of the 1.8 million inhabitants are ethnic Albanian. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Northern Kosovo sees ethnic Serbs clash with police, puts troops on high alert

An unusual occurrence of winter-like weather in spring is sweeping through the western Balkans, which woke up residents of Kosovo to a surprise snowfall. Hem Soraya brings you the report.

Springtime snow in Kosovo blankets Pristina | WION Climate Tracker

Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci on Monday pleaded not guilty to charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity at a trial in a special court in The Hague, where protesters rallied outside in support of the leader formerly feted by the West.

The 10 charges of persecution, murder, torture and forced disappearance of people stem from the 1998-99 insurgency that eventually brought independence from Serbia and made him a hero among many compatriots.

Thaci and three co-defendants, all principle leaders of the KLA guerrilla Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) and later in peacetime politics, all pleaded not guilty shortly after hearings got underway.

"I understand the indictment and I am fully not guilty," Thaci, 54, said in court. Dressed in a dark pinstripe suit, he looked pale and grayer after two years in detention.

More than 13,000 people, the majority of them members of Kosovo's 90% ethnic Albanian majority, are believed to have died during the insurgency, when it was still a province of Serbia under then-strongman president Slobodan Milosevic.

The trial, conducted by international judges and prosecutors, began with opening statements by the prosecution followed by defence lawyers and a representative of Kosovo's war Victims Council over the ensuing three days.

In the Hague, protesters carried banners bearing Thaci's image. Another protest in Kosovo on Sunday attracted thousands of supporters.

Thaci resigned as president shortly after his indictment in 2020 and was transferred to detention in The Hague.

The defendants targeted political opponents, ethnic Serbs and Roma, during and just after the conflict, prosecutor Alex Whiting said in an opening statement. Prosecutors said there were hundreds of detainees held across Kosovo in terrible conditions and over 100 were murdered. Most victims were Kosovo Albanians.

"Why the crimes were committed? The evidence will show to gain power," Whiting said.

The four defendants are charged with participating in a "joint criminal enterprise ... that carried out widespread or systematic attacks" on KLA opponents.

TRIAL COULD LAST YEARS

The trial is likely to be lengthy as prosecutors said they would need two years to present their evidence.

During his time as a KLA leader and a prominent politician, Thaci worked closely with many Western leaders. Joe Biden, when he was U.S. vice president, called him "the George Washington of Kosovo" and Thaci was en route to a meeting at Donald Trump's White House when his indictment was announced.

The trial began two weeks after the world's permanent war crimes tribunal, the International Criminal Court (ICC), also based in the Hague, issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, for the alleged crime of deporting Ukrainian children.

The Kosovo Specialist Chambers, seated in the Netherlands and staffed by international judges and lawyers, was set up in 2015 to handle cases under Kosovo law against ex-KLA guerrillas.

Many Kosovars believe that the tribunal is biased against the KLA and interested in denigrating its record in paving the way to liberation of the ethnic-Albanian majority region from repressive Serbian rule.

The court was created separately from the U.N. tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), also held in the Hague, which tried and convicted mainly Serbian officials for war crimes in the Croatia, Bosnia and Kosovo conflicts.

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Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci on Monday pleaded not guilty to charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity at a trial in a special court in The Hague, where protesters rallied outside in support of the leader formerly feted by the West.

Former Kosovo President Hashim Thaci on Monday pleaded not guilty to charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity at a trial in a special court in The Hague, where protesters rallied outside in support of the leader formerly feted by the West. The 10 charges of persecution, murder, torture and forced disappearance of people stem from the 1998-99 insurgency that eventually brought independence from Serbia and made him a hero among many compatriots. Thaci and three co-defendants, all principle leaders of the KLA guerrilla Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) and later in peacetime politics, all pleaded not guilty shortly after hearings got underway. "I understand the indictment and I am fully not guilty," Thaci, 54, said in court. Dressed in a dark pinstripe suit, he looked pale and grayer after two years in detention. More than 13,000 people, the majority of them members of Kosovo's 90% ethnic Albanian majority, are believed to have died during the insurgency, when it was still a province of Serbia under then-strongman president Slobodan Milosevic. The trial, conducted by international judges and prosecutors, began with opening statements by the prosecution followed by defence lawyers and a representative of Kosovo's war Victims Council over the ensuing three days. In the Hague, protesters carried banners bearing Thaci's image. Another protest in Kosovo on Sunday attracted thousands of supporters. Thaci resigned as president shortly after his indictment in 2020 and was transferred to detention in The Hague. The defendants targeted political opponents, ethnic Serbs and Roma, during and just after the conflict, prosecutor Alex Whiting said in an opening statement. Prosecutors said there were hundreds of detainees held across Kosovo in terrible conditions and over 100 were murdered. Most victims were Kosovo Albanians. "Why the crimes were committed? The evidence will show to gain power," Whiting said. The four defendants are charged with participating in a "joint criminal enterprise ... that carried out widespread or systematic attacks" on KLA opponents. TRIAL COULD LAST YEARS The trial is likely to be lengthy as prosecutors said they would need two years to present their evidence. During his time as a KLA leader and a prominent politician, Thaci worked closely with many Western leaders. Joe Biden, when he was U.S. vice president, called him "the George Washington of Kosovo" and Thaci was en route to a meeting at Donald Trump's White House when his indictment was announced. The trial began two weeks after the world's permanent war crimes tribunal, the International Criminal Court (ICC), also based in the Hague, issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, for the alleged crime of deporting Ukrainian children. The Kosovo Specialist Chambers, seated in the Netherlands and staffed by international judges and lawyers, was set up in 2015 to handle cases under Kosovo law against ex-KLA guerrillas. Many Kosovars believe that the tribunal is biased against the KLA and interested in denigrating its record in paving the way to liberation of the ethnic-Albanian majority region from repressive Serbian rule. The court was created separately from the U.N. tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), also held in the Hague, which tried and convicted mainly Serbian officials for war crimes in the Croatia, Bosnia and Kosovo conflicts. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former Kosovo president Hashim Thaci pleads not guilty to war crimes

Kosovo prime minister Albin Kurti and Serbian president Aleksandar Vucic have arrived in North Macedonia for a fresh round of talks with EU officials on a deal to normalise ties between both nations while thousands of Serbians took to the streets in Belgrade to protest the deal that they fear shall officially recognise Kosovo's independence from Serbia.

Kosovan PM Kurti meets with Serbian president Vucic on West-back EU entry deal

In Global Round-Up by WION, we bring you news from around the world. In today's edition - Three-way naval exercise held with China, Iran in Arabian sea, Kosovo and Serbia fail to sign agreement after marathon talks, Search for survivors continues as several remain missing in Malawi floods.

Three-way naval exercise held with China, Iran in Arabian sea; Kosovo, Serbia fail to sign agreement

Serbia and Kosovo failed to sign a landmark agreement on European-backed deal after marathon rounds and negotiations. The deal aimed to normalise relations between the Balkan neighbours despite this the EU foreign policy Chief hailed the progress on resolving the decade-long dispute.

Serbia, Kosovo fail to sign agreement on normalising ties; both nations need to mend ties to join EU

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Sunday said that the government's request to deploy around 1,000 army personnel and police to Kosovo after clashes between the authorities in Kosovo and Serbs was declined by NATO's mission in Kosovo, KFOR.&nbsp;

In 2008, Kosovo declared independence from Serbia to protect Albanians after the 1998-1999 war during which rump-Yugoslavia, which included Montenegro and Serbia, was bombed by NATO.&nbsp;

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kosovo-pm-kurti-submits-a-formal-application-to-join-european-union-543424">Kosovo PM Albin Kurti submits a formal application to join European Union</a> 
 
"They (KFOR) replied they consider that there is no need for the return of the Serbian army to Kosovo ... citing the United Nations resolution approving their mandate in Kosovo," said Serbian President Vucic during an interview with the private Pink television.&nbsp;

Serbia requests deployment of troops

Last month, after the war ended, Serbia for the first requested for deployment of military troops in Kosovo after the clashes broke out between Serbs and Kosovo authorities in the northern region, where the former constitute a majority.&nbsp;

The resolution of the UN Security Council resolution says that Serbia should be allowed, if KFOR approves, to deploy its military personnel at the Orthodox Christian religious sites, border crossings and areas where Serbs are present in the majority.&nbsp;

Vucic slammed KFOR for informing about its decision to the Serbian government on the eve of Orthodox Christmas after an off-duty soldier was arrested by Kosovo police for allegedly shooting and hurting two Serbs, who were aged 11 and 21, in the southern town of Shterpce.&nbsp;

Police said that the victims were admitted to the hospital and they did not suffer any life-threatening injuries. The incident was condemned by Kosovo authorities which further escalated tensions.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Kosovo accuses Serbia of supporting Serbs

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Thousands of Serbs protest peacefully in Shterpce&nbsp;

Thousands of Serbs gathered on Sunday to peacefully protest in Shterpce against what they termed as "violence against Serbs".&nbsp;

Head of the Serb List, Kosovo's main Serb party, Goran Rakic, alleged that Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti of making efforts to drive out Serbs.

"His goal is to create such conditions so that Serbs leave their homes. My message is that we must not surrender,” Rakic said.&nbsp;

As per the Serbian media report, another man was allegedly attacked by Albanians on Saturday. The media in Pristina claimed that a Kosovo bus going, that was travelling via Serbia to Germany, was attacked and rocks were used to break its windscreen on the same day.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Sunday said that the government's request to deploy around 1,000 army personnel and police to Kosovo after clashes between the authorities in Kosovo and Serbs was declined by NATO's mission in Kosovo, KFOR.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on Sunday said that the government's request to deploy around 1,000 army personnel and police to Kosovo after clashes between the authorities in Kosovo and Serbs was declined by NATO's mission in Kosovo, KFOR. In 2008, Kosovo declared independence from Serbia to protect Albanians after the 1998-1999 war during which rump-Yugoslavia, which included Montenegro and Serbia, was bombed by NATO. ALSO READ| Kosovo PM Albin Kurti submits a formal application to join European Union "They (KFOR) replied they consider that there is no need for the return of the Serbian army to Kosovo ... citing the United Nations resolution approving their mandate in Kosovo," said Serbian President Vucic during an interview with the private Pink television. Serbia requests deployment of troops Last month, after the war ended, Serbia for the first requested for deployment of military troops in Kosovo after the clashes broke out between Serbs and Kosovo authorities in the northern region, where the former constitute a majority. The resolution of the UN Security Council resolution says that Serbia should be allowed, if KFOR approves, to deploy its military personnel at the Orthodox Christian religious sites, border crossings and areas where Serbs are present in the majority. Vucic slammed KFOR for informing about its decision to the Serbian government on the eve of Orthodox Christmas after an off-duty soldier was arrested by Kosovo police for allegedly shooting and hurting two Serbs, who were aged 11 and 21, in the southern town of Shterpce. Police said that the victims were admitted to the hospital and they did not suffer any life-threatening injuries. The incident was condemned by Kosovo authorities which further escalated tensions. WATCH | Kosovo accuses Serbia of supporting Serbs Thousands of Serbs protest peacefully in Shterpce Thousands of Serbs gathered on Sunday to peacefully protest in Shterpce against what they termed as "violence against Serbs". Head of the Serb List, Kosovo's main Serb party, Goran Rakic, alleged that Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti of making efforts to drive out Serbs. "His goal is to create such conditions so that Serbs leave their homes. My message is that we must not surrender,” Rakic said. As per the Serbian media report, another man was allegedly attacked by Albanians on Saturday. The media in Pristina claimed that a Kosovo bus going, that was travelling via Serbia to Germany, was attacked and rocks were used to break its windscreen on the same day. (With inputs from agencies)

NATO refuses Serbian government’s request to send troops to Kosovo after clashes

The United States and the European Union have requested both Kosovo and Serbia to deescalate tensions in the border region. Both the US and EU have reached out to the Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti in order to find a political solution.&nbsp;"The European Union and the United States of America are concerned about the continued tense situation in the north of Kosovo," the EU and the US said in a joint statement according to AFP.

"We call on everyone to exercise maximum restraint, to take immediate action to unconditionally deescalate the situation, and to refrain from provocations, threats, or intimidation," they added.

Kosovo has been experiencing massive tensions since November after several ethnic Serb workers walked away from their jobs as a mark of protest. They were protesting the decision to ban Serbs in Kosovo from using Belgrade-issued vehicle number plates – a decision that was later overturned.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-funeral-homes-hospitals-overwhelmed-even-as-official-covid-figures-remain-low-547294">China funeral homes, hospitals overwhelmed while official Covid data stays low</a>

With the Serbs sealing off traffic on two border crossings, the authorities decided to completely close down the border. There were also a number of shooting incidents that targeted international peacekeepers as well as the police in Kosovo. Even the Serbian army has been put on high alert.

Both EU and US have urged the Kosovar authorities to not arrest any more ethnic Serbs in an attempt to control the ongoing crisis. The already arrested ones have already been charged.

"At the same time, rule of law must be respected, and any form of violence is unacceptable and will not be tolerated," they further stated in the official statement.

"We also expect Kosovo and Serbia to return to fostering an environment conducive to reconciliation, regional stability, and cooperation for the benefit of their citizens," they said.

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The United States and the European Union have requested both Kosovo and Serbia to deescalate tensions in the border region. Both the US and EU have reached out to the Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti in order to find a political solution.

The United States and the European Union have requested both Kosovo and Serbia to deescalate tensions in the border region. Both the US and EU have reached out to the Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti in order to find a political solution. "The European Union and the United States of America are concerned about the continued tense situation in the north of Kosovo," the EU and the US said in a joint statement according to AFP. "We call on everyone to exercise maximum restraint, to take immediate action to unconditionally deescalate the situation, and to refrain from provocations, threats, or intimidation," they added. Kosovo has been experiencing massive tensions since November after several ethnic Serb workers walked away from their jobs as a mark of protest. They were protesting the decision to ban Serbs in Kosovo from using Belgrade-issued vehicle number plates – a decision that was later overturned. Also read | China funeral homes, hospitals overwhelmed while official Covid data stays low With the Serbs sealing off traffic on two border crossings, the authorities decided to completely close down the border. There were also a number of shooting incidents that targeted international peacekeepers as well as the police in Kosovo. Even the Serbian army has been put on high alert. Both EU and US have urged the Kosovar authorities to not arrest any more ethnic Serbs in an attempt to control the ongoing crisis. The already arrested ones have already been charged. "At the same time, rule of law must be respected, and any form of violence is unacceptable and will not be tolerated," they further stated in the official statement. "We also expect Kosovo and Serbia to return to fostering an environment conducive to reconciliation, regional stability, and cooperation for the benefit of their citizens," they said.

US, EU urge immediate deescalation at Serbia-Kosovo border amid ongoing crisis

Kosovo and Serbia's main border crossing was opened on Thursday as the roadblocks were removed, said state-run TV as it announced a step towards easing tensions in the region.&nbsp;According to the report, trucks and cars were seen queued in front of the Serbian side's border point where the barricades were placed, as Kosovo police confirmed that they officially re-opened the crossing.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced that the barricades will be removed after Brussels and Washington appealed for de-escalation of tensions.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kosovo-pm-kurti-submits-a-formal-application-to-join-european-union-543424">Kosovo PM Albin Kurti submits a formal application to join European Union</a>

"Barricades will be removed, but the mistrust remains," said Vucic as quoted by the state-run RTS television on Wednesday, while holding a meeting with representatives of Kosovo Serb.

Almost a dozen of protesters, who were present at a barricade in Rudare, expressed dissatisfaction over the decision of opening the border crossing.

"It makes no sense, we fought for rights that were not fulfilled, we feel cheated, abused," said one of the protesters.

"Why did we come to the barricades, if everything ended this way?," questioned the other protester.

WATCH|&nbsp;Tensions diffuse between Kosovo and Serbia with the removal of roadblocks

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On Wednesday, the Pristina court ordered that the former police officer, whose detention led to Serbs setting barricades, should be released from jail and placed under house arrest.

The main border crossing between Kosovo and Serbia was closed after trucks and tractors were used by the Serbian protesters to stop the traffic.

Since November, tensions have escalated in Northern Kosovo after ethnic Serb workers working as Kosovo's prosecutors, judges and police, walked away from their jobs.

The ethnic Serbs were protesting against the ban imposed on Serbs from using Belgrade-issued vehicle licence plates in Kosovo, a policy which Pristina eventually scrapped.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kosovo and Serbia's main border crossing was opened on Thursday as the roadblocks were removed, said state-run TV as it announced a step towards easing tensions in the region.

Kosovo and Serbia's main border crossing was opened on Thursday as the roadblocks were removed, said state-run TV as it announced a step towards easing tensions in the region. According to the report, trucks and cars were seen queued in front of the Serbian side's border point where the barricades were placed, as Kosovo police confirmed that they officially re-opened the crossing. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic announced that the barricades will be removed after Brussels and Washington appealed for de-escalation of tensions. ALSO READ| Kosovo PM Albin Kurti submits a formal application to join European Union "Barricades will be removed, but the mistrust remains," said Vucic as quoted by the state-run RTS television on Wednesday, while holding a meeting with representatives of Kosovo Serb. Almost a dozen of protesters, who were present at a barricade in Rudare, expressed dissatisfaction over the decision of opening the border crossing. "It makes no sense, we fought for rights that were not fulfilled, we feel cheated, abused," said one of the protesters. "Why did we come to the barricades, if everything ended this way?," questioned the other protester. WATCH| Tensions diffuse between Kosovo and Serbia with the removal of roadblocks On Wednesday, the Pristina court ordered that the former police officer, whose detention led to Serbs setting barricades, should be released from jail and placed under house arrest. The main border crossing between Kosovo and Serbia was closed after trucks and tractors were used by the Serbian protesters to stop the traffic. Since November, tensions have escalated in Northern Kosovo after ethnic Serb workers working as Kosovo's prosecutors, judges and police, walked away from their jobs. The ethnic Serbs were protesting against the ban imposed on Serbs from using Belgrade-issued vehicle licence plates in Kosovo, a policy which Pristina eventually scrapped. (With inputs from agencies)

Serbs remove roadblock between Kosovo and Serbia border crossing as tensions ease

After 19 days of blockade; Kosovo and Serbs finally agreed to remove the barricades from the roads of northern Kosovo. The protest was triggered by the arrest of former Kosovo Serb policeman.

Tensions diffuse between Kosovo and Serbia with the removal of roadblocks

Kosovo’s Interior Minister Xhelal Svecla has claimed that Serbia is working afoot to destabilise the country by taking help from Russia.

He alleged that Serbia has been inciting the Serb minority in the north, who under Moscow’s influence, have been blocking roads and protesting for almost three weeks.

The tensions between the two countries are at an all-time high as Serbia said it had put its army on the highest combat alert.

"It is precisely Serbia, influenced by Russia, that has raised a state of military readiness and that is ordering the erection of new barricades, in order to justify and protect the criminal groups that terrorise... citizens of Serb ethnicity living in Kosovo," <a name="_Hlk123093815">Svecla</a> said in a statement.

For the past two weeks, the Serbs in northern Kosovo have been agitating against the arrest of a former Serb policeman who had allegedly assaulted serving police officers. They have blocked multiple roads in and around Mitrovica and also clashed with the police.

Responding to Svecla’s claims, Serbia refuted the charges that it is trying to destabilise its neighbour and said that it just wants to protect its minority there.

<h2>Tension flare up at Serbia-Kosovo border, troops deployed in the region</h2>

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“Serbia would continue to fight for peace and seek compromise solutions," Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said on Tuesday, reports Reuters news agency.

Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 with the backing of the West, following a 1998-1999 war in which NATO intervened to protect ethnic Albanian citizens.

It is not a member of the United Nations and five EU states —Spain, Greece, Romania, Slovakia and Cyprus — have refused to recognise Kosovo's statehood.

Russia, Serbia's historical ally, is blocking Kosovo's membership in the United Nations.

According to an estimate, around 50,000 Serbs live in the northern part of Kosovo. They refuse to recognise the local Pristina state and see Belgrade as their capital.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kosovo’s Interior Minister Xhelal Svecla has claimed that Serbia is working afoot to destabilise the country by taking help from Russia. He alleged that Serbia has been inciting the Serb minority in the north, who under Moscow’s influence, have been blocking roads and protesting for almost three weeks.

Kosovo’s Interior Minister Xhelal Svecla has claimed that Serbia is working afoot to destabilise the country by taking help from Russia. He alleged that Serbia has been inciting the Serb minority in the north, who under Moscow’s influence, have been blocking roads and protesting for almost three weeks. The tensions between the two countries are at an all-time high as Serbia said it had put its army on the highest combat alert. "It is precisely Serbia, influenced by Russia, that has raised a state of military readiness and that is ordering the erection of new barricades, in order to justify and protect the criminal groups that terrorise... citizens of Serb ethnicity living in Kosovo," Svecla said in a statement. For the past two weeks, the Serbs in northern Kosovo have been agitating against the arrest of a former Serb policeman who had allegedly assaulted serving police officers. They have blocked multiple roads in and around Mitrovica and also clashed with the police. Responding to Svecla’s claims, Serbia refuted the charges that it is trying to destabilise its neighbour and said that it just wants to protect its minority there. Tension flare up at Serbia-Kosovo border, troops deployed in the region “Serbia would continue to fight for peace and seek compromise solutions," Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said on Tuesday, reports Reuters news agency. Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 with the backing of the West, following a 1998-1999 war in which NATO intervened to protect ethnic Albanian citizens. It is not a member of the United Nations and five EU states —Spain, Greece, Romania, Slovakia and Cyprus — have refused to recognise Kosovo's statehood. Russia, Serbia's historical ally, is blocking Kosovo's membership in the United Nations. According to an estimate, around 50,000 Serbs live in the northern part of Kosovo. They refuse to recognise the local Pristina state and see Belgrade as their capital. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Serbia acting under the influence of Russia, claims Kosovo’s interior minister as tensions reach all-time high

Kosovo has alleged that Serbia is aiming to destabilise the country under the influence of Russia. This comes after the tensions flared up on the Serbia Kosovo border, after which the Serbian President ordered the troops in the region to 'full combat readiness'.

Serbia orders troops to be in 'full readiness'; Kosovan minister says, 'Russia influencing Serbia'

Kosovo accuses Serbia of supporting serbs

As Serbia and its neighbour, Kosovo's relations undergo a strain, Serbian armed forces as per the nation's Defence Minister Milos Vucevic have been put on the "highest level" of alert.

"Serbia's president... ordered the Serbian army to be on the highest level of combat readiness, that is to the level of the use of armed force," Vucevic said in a statement.

Watch |&nbsp;Tension flare up at Serbia-Kosovo border, troops deployed in the region

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As per the Defence minister, President Aleksandar Vucic has also ordered that the armed forces be beefed up from its existing numbers of 1,500 to 5,000.

Sunday also saw Serbian army chief General Milan Mojsilovic dispatched to the border with Kosovo.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-fresh-tensions-shots-fired-near-nato-patrol-in-kosovo-546559">Amid fresh tensions, shots fired near NATO patrol in Kosovo</a>&nbsp;

As per AFP, the Serbian interior ministry has also announced that all units are to immediately come "under the command of the chief of the general staff".

Recent years have seen multiple incidences of tensions between the two neighbours, the last in November whereby Serbia claimed that drones from Kosovo entered its airspace.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kosovo-and-serbia-agree-to-end-car-number-plate-policy-537057">Kosovo and Serbia agree to end long-standing dispute over car licence number plates</a>

This month saw tensions flare up further as Serbs in Kosovo set up barricades to protest against the arrest of an ex-policeman over suspicion of involvement in attacks against police officers.

Kosovo has also seen a rise in reported shootings. On Sunday, NATO's KFOR mission which is a neutral party in the area reported gunshots fired near a patrol car.

The two nations have witnessed consistent tensions since Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Years later Belgrade refuses to recognise Pristina's authority and constantly encourages the remaining 12,000 Serbs to defy the government.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As Serbia and its neighbour, Kosovo's relations undergo a strain, Serbian armed forces as per the nation's Defence Minister Milos Vucevic have been put on the "highest level" of alert.

As Serbia and its neighbour, Kosovo's relations undergo a strain, Serbian armed forces as per the nation's Defence Minister Milos Vucevic have been put on the "highest level" of alert. "Serbia's president... ordered the Serbian army to be on the highest level of combat readiness, that is to the level of the use of armed force," Vucevic said in a statement. Watch | Tension flare up at Serbia-Kosovo border, troops deployed in the region As per the Defence minister, President Aleksandar Vucic has also ordered that the armed forces be beefed up from its existing numbers of 1,500 to 5,000. Sunday also saw Serbian army chief General Milan Mojsilovic dispatched to the border with Kosovo. Also read | Amid fresh tensions, shots fired near NATO patrol in Kosovo As per AFP, the Serbian interior ministry has also announced that all units are to immediately come "under the command of the chief of the general staff". Recent years have seen multiple incidences of tensions between the two neighbours, the last in November whereby Serbia claimed that drones from Kosovo entered its airspace. Also read | Kosovo and Serbia agree to end long-standing dispute over car licence number plates This month saw tensions flare up further as Serbs in Kosovo set up barricades to protest against the arrest of an ex-policeman over suspicion of involvement in attacks against police officers. Kosovo has also seen a rise in reported shootings. On Sunday, NATO's KFOR mission which is a neutral party in the area reported gunshots fired near a patrol car. The two nations have witnessed consistent tensions since Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Years later Belgrade refuses to recognise Pristina's authority and constantly encourages the remaining 12,000 Serbs to defy the government. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Amid tensions with Kosovo, Serbia beefs up armed forces, puts troops on high alert

Shots were fired in Kosovo near a NATO patrol, said the organisation on Sunday. No injuries have been reported.

As per a Reuters report, no injuries were reported, and the NATO patrol car too escaped unharmed. NATO's KFOR mission did not disclose the location from which the shots were fired. Reportedly the incident happened early Sunday evening after Kosovar forces attempted to dismantle a barricade.

Watch |&nbsp;Serbia demands return of its security forces; tensions flare between Serbs and Kosovo

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The incident happened in Zubin Potok, in the northern part of Kosovo where local Serbs have set up roadblocks to bar Pristina police from patrolling the area that in recent months has witnessed ethnic tensions. Around 3,760 NATO troops are stationed in the area to maintain peace.

Local Serbs in the area of around 50,000 people have reportedly set up barricades after the police on December 10 arrested a former Serb police officer for allegedly assaulting a police officer during a previous protest. The barricades as per AFP have paralysed traffic through the two border crossings.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kosovo-and-serbia-agree-to-end-car-number-plate-policy-537057">Kosovo and Serbia agree to end long-standing dispute over car licence number plates</a>

Backed by Serbia, the local Serb population does not recognise the state of Kosovo. In lieu of taking down the barricades, they are demanding the release of the police officer and a few other things.

However, the Kosovo government has asked KFOR to take down those barricades.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kosovo-pm-kurti-submits-a-formal-application-to-join-european-union-543424">Kosovo PM Albin Kurti submits a formal application to join European Union</a>

Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008. However, years later Belgrade refuses to accept this and constantly encourages the remaining 12,000 Serbs to defy Pristina's authority.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Shots were fired in Kosovo near a NATO patrol, said the organisation on Sunday. No injuries have been reported. As per a Reuters report, no injuries were reported, and the NATO patrol car too escaped unharmed.

Shots were fired in Kosovo near a NATO patrol, said the organisation on Sunday. No injuries have been reported. As per a Reuters report, no injuries were reported, and the NATO patrol car too escaped unharmed. NATO's KFOR mission did not disclose the location from which the shots were fired. Reportedly the incident happened early Sunday evening after Kosovar forces attempted to dismantle a barricade. Watch | Serbia demands return of its security forces; tensions flare between Serbs and Kosovo The incident happened in Zubin Potok, in the northern part of Kosovo where local Serbs have set up roadblocks to bar Pristina police from patrolling the area that in recent months has witnessed ethnic tensions. Around 3,760 NATO troops are stationed in the area to maintain peace. Local Serbs in the area of around 50,000 people have reportedly set up barricades after the police on December 10 arrested a former Serb police officer for allegedly assaulting a police officer during a previous protest. The barricades as per AFP have paralysed traffic through the two border crossings. Also read | Kosovo and Serbia agree to end long-standing dispute over car licence number plates Backed by Serbia, the local Serb population does not recognise the state of Kosovo. In lieu of taking down the barricades, they are demanding the release of the police officer and a few other things. However, the Kosovo government has asked KFOR to take down those barricades. Also read | Kosovo PM Albin Kurti submits a formal application to join European Union Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008. However, years later Belgrade refuses to accept this and constantly encourages the remaining 12,000 Serbs to defy Pristina's authority. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Amid fresh tensions, shots fired near NATO patrol in Kosovo

Tensions between the ethnic Serbs and Kosovo and authorities have flared up again as the Serbs continue to amplify their demonstrations to protest the arrest of a former Kosovo sub-police officer.

Serbia demands return of its security forces; tensions flare between Serbs and Kosovo

Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti formally applied for Kosovo to become a part of the European Union on Thursday, initiating a bid which could take years to accomplish and depends on the nation normalising its relations with Serbia.&nbsp;The application was presented by PM Kurti to the Czech Republic, which is currently holding the rotating presidency of the EU.

"We want no back door, no fast-track. We want to build the EU in our country with our people," said Kosovo’s prime minister after the application was handed over to Czech European Affairs Minister Mikulas Bek.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kosovo-and-serbia-agree-to-end-car-number-plate-policy-537057">Kosovo and Serbia agree to end long-standing dispute over car licence number plates</a>

From its region, Kosovo is the only country which has till now not applied for joining the EU. Although the 27-nation EU is reluctant to further expansion, the invasion of Ukraine by Russia made them work towards improvising its relations with six Balkan countries - North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo, and Serbia.

"We firmly believe that a European future is the only way to solve a number of problems in the region, whether economic, social or ethnic," said Minister Bek.

In 2008, Kosovo, an Albanian-majority nation, declared independence from Serbia with the support of the West after the 1998-1999 war in which NATO’s intervention took place to protect the territory.

WATCH|&nbsp;U.S. Balkan envoy meets Kosovo PM Kurti after Serbs block roads

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Kosovo is not one of the members of the United Nations and its statehood has not been recognised by Greece, Slovakia, Cyprus, Spain and Romania. Around 110 countries recognise its independence but not Russia, China or Serbia, among others.

Before joining the EU, Kosovo needs to work on normalising its relations with Serbia. The bloc has been working on a deal on which it hopes both countries will agree in a year. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti formally applied for Kosovo to become a part of the European Union on Thursday, initiating a bid which could take years to accomplish and depends on the nation normalising its relations with Serbia.

Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti formally applied for Kosovo to become a part of the European Union on Thursday, initiating a bid which could take years to accomplish and depends on the nation normalising its relations with Serbia. The application was presented by PM Kurti to the Czech Republic, which is currently holding the rotating presidency of the EU. "We want no back door, no fast-track. We want to build the EU in our country with our people," said Kosovo’s prime minister after the application was handed over to Czech European Affairs Minister Mikulas Bek. ALSO READ| Kosovo and Serbia agree to end long-standing dispute over car licence number plates From its region, Kosovo is the only country which has till now not applied for joining the EU. Although the 27-nation EU is reluctant to further expansion, the invasion of Ukraine by Russia made them work towards improvising its relations with six Balkan countries - North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo, and Serbia. "We firmly believe that a European future is the only way to solve a number of problems in the region, whether economic, social or ethnic," said Minister Bek. In 2008, Kosovo, an Albanian-majority nation, declared independence from Serbia with the support of the West after the 1998-1999 war in which NATO’s intervention took place to protect the territory. WATCH| U.S. Balkan envoy meets Kosovo PM Kurti after Serbs block roads Kosovo is not one of the members of the United Nations and its statehood has not been recognised by Greece, Slovakia, Cyprus, Spain and Romania. Around 110 countries recognise its independence but not Russia, China or Serbia, among others. Before joining the EU, Kosovo needs to work on normalising its relations with Serbia. The bloc has been working on a deal on which it hopes both countries will agree in a year. (With inputs from agencies)

Kosovo PM Albin Kurti submits a formal application to join European Union

The U.S. Balkan envoy met Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti. The meeting happened after Serbs blocked roads to protest in the north. The U.S. And EU have called on both sides to defuse the tensions.

U.S. Balkan envoy meets Kosovo PM Kurti after Serbs block roads

Around a thousand Serbian nationalists demonstrated in Belgrade to support of the Serbs. The nationalists blocked roads in the northern region. Protesters waved flags, blending the Russian and Serbian flags.

Serbian nationalists protest in Belgrade in support of Kosovo Serbs

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić urged people to maintain peace amid heavy clashes in Kosovo. Earlier, Serb protesters blocked roads and unknown gunmen exchanged fire with police over the weekend amid rising ethnic tensions in the country’s restive north.

Serbian President calls for peace in Kosovo amid protest

Kosovo Serba and the country's police exchanged gunfire after tensions flared up in the volatile northern part of the country on Saturday. The Serbs from Kosovo's North blocked main roads in the region.

Kosovo: Serbs blocked roads in protest against arrest of a Serb policeman

A long-standing row between Kosovo and Serbia over Serbian car plates reached a peaceful conclusion on Wednesday, paving the way for a thaw in ties between the two European nations.&nbsp;Kosovo, which broke away from Serbia in 2008 to become an independent country, had threatened to issue fines from Thursday against drivers who continue to use Serbian-issued car licence plates.&nbsp;

European Union officials, who were mediating the talks between the two nations, said that a deal has been reached and hoped that it would the pave way for normalisation of relations.&nbsp;

"We have a deal," EU foreign policy chief&nbsp;Josep Borrell announced on Twitter.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We have a deal! 
 
Very pleased to announce that Chief Negotiators of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kosovo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kosovo</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Serbia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Serbia</a> under EU-facilitation have agreed on measures to avoid further escalation and to fully concentrate on the proposal on normalisation of their relations.
— Josep Borrell Fontelles (@JosepBorrellF) <a href="https://twitter.com/JosepBorrellF/status/1595528968794431495?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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"Very pleased to announce that chief negotiators of Kosovo and Serbia under EU-facilitation have agreed on measures to avoid further escalation and to fully concentrate on the proposal on normalization of their relations."&nbsp;

Serbia has&nbsp;decided to stop issuing licence plates with Kosovo cities' number plates, while Kosovo said that it would not demand that vehicles with Serbian plates be re-registered.&nbsp;

Kosovo had wanted its ethnic Serb minority to surrender their Serbian-issued plates.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The talks were held between Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti&nbsp;in Brussels this week.&nbsp;

On Monday, the US intervened after no progress and asked Kosovo to delay the introduction of fines&nbsp;for 48 hours so a deal could be reached,&nbsp;Deutsche Welle&nbsp;news agency reported.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;EU has been mediating&nbsp;talks&nbsp;between&nbsp;Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti&nbsp;in Brussels this week.&nbsp;

Kosovo's President Vjosa Osmani said "Kosovo is grateful" for Washington's support of dialogue between the two countries.&nbsp;

There are around 50,000 Serbs living in northern Kosovo. They have been protesting against Prime Minister Kurti over the country’s licence plate policy.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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A long-standing row between Kosovo and Serbia over Serbian car plates reached a peaceful conclusion on Wednesday, paving the way for a thaw in ties between the two European nations.

A long-standing row between Kosovo and Serbia over Serbian car plates reached a peaceful conclusion on Wednesday, paving the way for a thaw in ties between the two European nations. Kosovo, which broke away from Serbia in 2008 to become an independent country, had threatened to issue fines from Thursday against drivers who continue to use Serbian-issued car licence plates. European Union officials, who were mediating the talks between the two nations, said that a deal has been reached and hoped that it would the pave way for normalisation of relations. "We have a deal," EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell announced on Twitter. We have a deal! Very pleased to announce that Chief Negotiators of #Kosovo & #Serbia under EU-facilitation have agreed on measures to avoid further escalation and to fully concentrate on the proposal on normalisation of their relations. — Josep Borrell Fontelles (@JosepBorrellF) November 23, 2022 × "Very pleased to announce that chief negotiators of Kosovo and Serbia under EU-facilitation have agreed on measures to avoid further escalation and to fully concentrate on the proposal on normalization of their relations." Serbia has decided to stop issuing licence plates with Kosovo cities' number plates, while Kosovo said that it would not demand that vehicles with Serbian plates be re-registered. Kosovo had wanted its ethnic Serb minority to surrender their Serbian-issued plates. The talks were held between Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti in Brussels this week. On Monday, the US intervened after no progress and asked Kosovo to delay the introduction of fines for 48 hours so a deal could be reached, Deutsche Welle news agency reported. The EU has been mediating talks between Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti in Brussels this week. Kosovo's President Vjosa Osmani said "Kosovo is grateful" for Washington's support of dialogue between the two countries. There are around 50,000 Serbs living in northern Kosovo. They have been protesting against Prime Minister Kurti over the country’s licence plate policy. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Kosovo and Serbia agree to end long-standing dispute over car licence number plates

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