USAID has officially concluded its historic mission after more than six decades of global service, and former U.S. Ambassador to Pristina, Jeffrey Hovenier, has described Kosovo as a shining example of the agency’s success—especially in the aftermath of the 1998–1999 war.
Following the announcement by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) that it has ended its operations, Hovenier expressed deep gratitude for the agency’s vital role in helping rebuild Kosovo after the war.
“I want to express my solidarity and gratitude to all colleagues, especially those from USAID, for everything they’ve done for this country—especially in a place like Kosovo, whose people we helped escape the horrors of ethnic cleansing at the hands of the fascist leader of Serbia, Slobodan Milošević, and to build a functioning, democratic, and successful society,” said Hovenier.
Additionally, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the official closure of USAID’s operations, marking a historic end to the American foreign aid agency after over 60 years of global service.
USAID played a pivotal role in Kosovo’s post-war recovery, investing more than $1 billion in the country. These funds supported a wide range of initiatives, including strengthening the rule of law, good governance, and democracy, while also improving education, inclusion, accountability, and Kosovo’s economic development.
