Kosovo Crisis Deepens: Kurti’s Government Dismantles Serbian Institutions, Leaving Thousands Without Support

The situation in Kosovo and Metohija has taken a dangerous turn after the government in Pristina, led by Prime Minister Albin Kurti, decided to dismantle Serbian institutions in several municipalities with a majority Serbian population

This move directly affects thousands of Serbs in Kosovo, creating a new point of tension in the already strained relations between Belgrade and Pristina.

Kosovo Authorities’ Decision: Closing Serbian Structures

In a move that Belgrade considers a serious provocation, the Kosovo government has shut down all parallel Serbian institutions in Kosovo Polje, Gračanica, Lipljan, Velika Hoča, Orahovac, Kusce, and other enclaves. These institutions, funded directly by Serbia, included local administrations, post offices, tax agencies, and other essential public services for the Serbian community.

As a result of this action, over 1,000 Serbs have lost their jobs, and approximately 40,000 people are now left without access to basic administrative and social services.

Belgrade’s Reaction: “An Anti-Serbian Action”

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić strongly condemned the decision of the Kosovo government, accusing Pristina of a severe violation of minority rights. He declared that Serbia will continue to financially support Serbs in Kosovo, ensuring that they receive the necessary income to survive.

“This is a direct blow against ethnic Serbs. Pristina is trying to force them out through economic and administrative measures. We will not allow this,” Vučić stated in an official declaration.

European Union: Call for Calm and Dialogue

The European Union, which mediates the normalization process between Serbia and Kosovo, reacted immediately, urging that the status of Serbian institutions should be settled through dialogue, not unilateral actions. EU officials warned that such measures could escalate tensions in an already unstable region.

“It is essential for both sides to return to the negotiation table and avoid any actions that could further destabilize the region,” an EU spokesperson stated.

Political Context: An Electoral Move by Albin Kurti?

Some political analysts suggest that this move may be part of a political strategy by Prime Minister Albin Kurti, who is looking to strengthen his political support ahead of the upcoming parliamentary elections, scheduled for February 9. Kurti has consistently taken a hardline stance against Belgrade, positioning himself as a defender of Kosovo’s sovereignty.

Despite diplomatic efforts, tensions between Serbia and Kosovo remain high, and the EU-facilitated dialogue process, which began in 2011, has made little progress toward a genuine normalization of bilateral relations.

Conclusion: An Explosive Situation

The Kosovo government’s decision risks escalating the Balkan crisis at a time when the region is already under pressure due to the broader geopolitical conflict between the West and Russia. With Kosovo Serbs now deprived of administrative and economic support, and Belgrade preparing to respond, the future of the region remains highly uncertain.

If the involved parties fail to reach a quick diplomatic solution, the situation risks spiraling into a new regional conflict, with major implications for European security.