As global tensions escalate, all eyes should be on the Western Balkans, especially Kosovo, where the risk of a new war is greater than ever. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Russian President Vladimir Putin have made clear their ambitions to exploit the fragile situation in the region to incite conflicts. Vučić’s actions, backed by Putin’s strategy to divert attention from challenges in Ukraine, create a conducive climate for sparking a war in Kosovo. Vladimir Putin, facing challenges in Ukraine, may see a crisis in the Balkans as a way to divert attention and undermine Western support for Ukraine. Despite ongoing mediation efforts in Brussels, their aggressive ambitions have yet to be curbed.
Vučić has shown persistent disregard for the Brussels Agreement, mediated by the European Union, which aims to secure peaceful relations between Kosovo and Serbia. This refusal not only escalates tensions but also suggests a readiness to jeopardize regional stability for short-term political gains.
Faced with this potentially explosive situation, it is crucial for the European Union and the United States to be more actively engaged. Intensive diplomacy and support for democratic institutions in the region are vital to prevent an escalation of violence and to uphold the values of peace and stability that are essential for European security.
As an observer of international politics, I strongly believe it is important for Western leaders to remain vigilant and engaged in defending the principles of rule of law and be prepared to address any possible external interventions seeking to benefit from turmoil in the Balkans. War is not inevitable, but our decisive action can be key in preventing it.
Finally, expectations are high for the replacements of Miroslav Lajčák and Josep Borrell in Brussels, who come from states that do not recognize Kosovo’s independence. These efforts are expected to shed new light on the Brussels Agreement, mediated by the European Union. This recent development offers hope for a diplomatic solution that can prevent further escalation and ensure stability in the region.
