British Ambassador to Kosovo Jonathan Hargreaves has reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s support for Kosovo, recalling Britain’s role alongside NATO allies during the 1999 intervention and stressing that the recent judgments of the Kosovo Specialist Chambers concern individuals, not Kosovo’s statehood or sovereignty.
Hargreaves said Britain was proud of the role it played in Kosovo in 1999 and in supporting the country since then. The UK government has likewise stated that it is proud of its role alongside NATO allies in helping prevent a humanitarian catastrophe in 1999 and in supporting Kosovo’s independence in 2008.
The ambassador recalled the repression and war crimes committed during the Kosovo conflict under Slobodan Milošević and the mass displacement of Kosovo Albanians. He also emphasized Britain’s continued support for international justice, accountability and the rule of law, including Kosovo’s decision to establish and support the Specialist Chambers.
Addressing the September 16 judgments against Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi, Hargreaves stressed that the findings concern individual responsibility. The British government has made the same position clear, stating that the judgment is not a judgment on Kosovo’s statehood, sovereignty or its right to determine its own future, while reaffirming its support for Kosovo’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.
Hargreaves also noted that those convicted have the right to appeal. He said Britain remains committed to supporting peace, justice and reconciliation in the Western Balkans and to working with Kosovo and international partners toward a secure and stable future for all communities.
