Defense teams representing former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) have concluded their final arguments at the court proceedings in The Hague, urging judges to dismiss charges and declare the accused not guilty.
Defense: Jakup Krasniqi “Not Comparable to Slobodan Milošević”
Defense attorney Vanketesar Alagendra, representing Jakup Krasniqi, argued that her client should not be compared to Serbian leader Slobodan Milošević. She insisted that Krasniqi should be acquitted of all charges. Following the completion of the defense’s closing statements, the panel of judges is expected to begin questioning.
Meanwhile, Krasniqi’s attorney Mentor Beqiri criticized the prosecution’s request for a 45-year prison sentence, describing it as “unreasonable and unjustified.” He argued that individual acts of revenge could not be attributed to the KLA as an organization.
Defense Challenges Prosecution’s Claims Against Hashim Thaçi
Earlier, attorney Luka Mišetić, representing former Kosovo President Hashim Thaçi, asserted that his client remains innocent. He argued that prosecution claims contradict previous tribunal findings, including conclusions that military intervention by NATO in Kosovo responded to Serbian operations rather than any alleged organized criminal enterprise by the KLA.
Thaçi’s defense also criticized the prosecution for allegedly dismissing testimonies from international diplomats and observers while simultaneously calling them as witnesses.
Attorney Pierre Prosper strongly objected to the prosecution’s stance, arguing that undermining testimony from experienced diplomats and military officials weakens confidence in international tribunals. He emphasized that these witnesses gathered first-hand information through official meetings, intelligence briefings, and field observations.
Defense of Kadri Veseli Rejects Evidence Presented
Defense counsel Rodney Dixon, representing Kadri Veseli, stated that the prosecution had “no case” against his client. He argued that the charges rely largely on indirect testimonies rather than direct evidence.
Dixon further urged the court to consider the broader historical context, claiming that alleged crimes must be assessed alongside the political and military circumstances of the Kosovo conflict. He also questioned the reliability of evidence originating from Serbian sources.
Rexhep Selimi Defense Questions Prosecution’s Interpretation of Events
Attorney Geoffrey Roberts, representing Rexhep Selimi, challenged the prosecution’s interpretation of the alleged joint criminal enterprise. He questioned whether the prosecution implicitly suggested that prominent KLA figure Adem Jashari was part of such an enterprise, calling for clarification from prosecutors.
Trial Proceedings Continue
The judicial process involving former KLA leaders has entered its final stage, with closing arguments from both prosecution and defense presented throughout the week. Judges are expected to continue deliberations and questioning as the proceedings move toward a verdict.
