Charles Kupchan, former director for European Affairs at the U.S. National Security Council and professor, believes that Kosovo should focus on coordinating with its allies and engage in direct negotiations with Serbia to continue its Euro-Atlantic path.
When it comes to the return of newly elected President Donald Trump, Kupchan stated that Trump would engage with individuals he believes can solve problems. He emphasized that Trump is known for his transactional approach and will attempt to strike deals—whether in the Balkans, Ukraine, or the Middle East.
“If I were advising Kurti, I would say: Be careful! You don’t want to end up on the wrong side of Trump. You don’t want to be the one blocking a possible breakthrough or deal that Trump might want to present as his own,” Kupchan said.
He added that Kosovo must balance its own interests with those of its allies.
“I don’t think it’s hard to do this. Kosovo needs to avoid steps that are seen as provocative and get into a situation where it is ready to sit down face to face with Serbia, the EU, and the U.S. It needs to become a partner again, one that works to move things forward,” Kupchan told Radio Free Europe.
Speaking about the EU’s punitive measures against Kosovo, Kupchan pointed out that Kosovo has been penalized for non-compliance, stressing that Kosovo’s security and stability depend on coordinating with its allies.
“Therefore, I believe the last thing that is in Kosovo’s interest is to burn bridges with those countries that are crucial for its well-being and its integration into the Euro-Atlantic community. I hope Kurti and other potential leaders understand this and will return to working more closely with collaborative partners, as required by the EU and the U.S.,” Kupchan concluded.
