Kosovo’s acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti addressed the recent suspension of the Strategic Dialogue with the United States, emphasizing that he cannot compromise when it comes to the rule of law in northern Kosovo.
Kurti clarified that the dialogue itself has not been canceled, but that planning for the talks has been put on hold. He pointed to two main reasons: the beginning of law enforcement in the north against illegal Serbian structures, and differences in diplomatic priorities with Washington.
“I cannot make compromises here. I cannot leave this problem to your generation. I believe it is my generation’s duty to finish it,” Kurti said, adding that Kosovo’s relationship with the U.S. is three-dimensional – defense, development, and diplomacy.
He stressed that while cooperation in defense remains strong, obstacles appear mainly in diplomacy. According to Kurti, the U.S. sees it as vital to pull Serbia away from Moscow’s influence, while Kosovo insists on upholding sovereignty, democracy, and territorial integrity.
“Some U.S. politicians and diplomats believe we are not helping enough to detach Serbia from Russia. But honestly, that should not be my problem. My responsibility is to represent the interests of the Republic of Kosovo,” Kurti stated.
The Prime Minister also warned against what he called a “soft approach” towards Belgrade:
“Being gentle with autocrats has never been successful. The more concessions you make, the worse they become. Dictators interpret generosity as fear.”
