Serbia is reportedly engaging in hybrid warfare to interfere in Kosovo’s parliamentary elections scheduled for February 9, aiming to undermine the democratic order and destabilize the region.
Hybrid Interference Identified
At a roundtable discussion hosted by the Institute for Hybrid Warfare Studies “OCTOPUS,” experts emphasized Serbia’s use of political and economic tactics, including support for the Serb List party, to influence Kosovo’s political processes.
Arben Fetoshi, director of “OCTOPUS,” stated:
- Serbia’s hybrid warfare involves activities targeting Kosovo’s democratic and international consolidation.
- The Serb List is being utilized as a legal facade for destabilization efforts in Kosovo.
- Belgrade’s ruling party, led by President Aleksandar Vučić, is mobilizing financial and other resources to secure the guaranteed 10 seats for the Serb List in Kosovo’s Parliament.
- This interference extends beyond control but symbolizes unwavering support for Serbia’s political influence in Kosovo.
Fetoshi also highlighted the Banjska attack, led by Milan Radoičić, as evidence of the Serb List’s deeper role as a hybrid warfare tool rather than a mere political entity.
Regional and International Concerns
Radomir Dimić, a journalist from Serbia, revealed that Serbia’s hybrid tactics are not confined to Kosovo but are also being deployed in Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Matti Nissien, Finland’s ambassador, emphasized the role of disinformation campaigns targeting ethnic divisions in Kosovo as part of this hybrid warfare strategy.
Other participants also highlighted Serbia’s continued efforts to interfere in Kosovo’s electoral processes, calling for increased international awareness and preventive measures.
