Ukrainian MP Oleksiy Goncharenko is known as one of the supporters of our country.
He has been actively working for some time to get Ukraine to recognize Kosovo’s independence.
In an interview with “Bota Sot,” Goncharenko discussed recent developments in Kosovo, relations with Serbia, and Russian influence in the Balkans.
To start, the Ukrainian MP explained what drives him to lobby and support Kosovo, emphasizing that he understands our concerns about threats from Serbia.
Regarding Ukraine’s recognition of Kosovo, he hopes this issue will be resolved as soon as possible.
Additionally, Goncharenko spoke about the similarities between events in Kosovo and Ukraine, as well as their goals for NATO membership.
Naturally, he also mentioned Russian influence in the Balkans and Serbian provocations towards Kosovo.
Full Interview
Bota Sot: You are a strong supporter of Kosovo and a lobbyist for its recognition in the Ukrainian parliament. What has driven you to take such a stance?
Oleksiy Goncharenko: My strong support for Kosovo and my lobbying for its recognition in the Ukrainian parliament and the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe stem from my deep understanding of your concerns. Both Ukraine and Kosovo have faced threats from aggressive neighbors. So, it is impossible for me to remain indifferent.
Bota Sot: Why has Ukraine still not made a decision regarding the recognition of Kosovo?
Oleksiy Goncharenko: I have long advocated for the recognition of Kosovo and have tried to convince my colleagues in the Ukrainian parliament. I hope we will resolve this issue in the near future.
Bota Sot: Mr. Goncharenko, like Ukraine, Kosovo is also hoping to join NATO and the EU to gain necessary guarantees, being threatened by aggressive neighbors, especially after the Russian war in Ukraine. Do you see similarities between the two cases? And do you think NATO and Europe will open their doors to both countries?
Oleksiy Goncharenko: There are, of course, clear similarities between Ukraine and Kosovo, especially in their aspirations to join NATO and the EU as a means to protect their sovereignty from aggressive neighbors. Each of us has the right to join where we wish.
Bota Sot: Serbia is becoming increasingly close to Russia, and Kosovo feels threatened by Serbia. Do you think Russia might have an interest in causing a war here in the Balkans?
Oleksiy Goncharenko: Russia’s influence in Serbia and its broader strategic interests in the Balkans could indeed lead to increased tension or conflict in the region. Moscow might see instability in the Balkans as a way to distract and divide Western attention and resources.
Bota Sot: How do you view the Kosovo-Serbia negotiations in this sensitive phase, with continuous provocations from the Serbian side?
Oleksiy Goncharenko: The Kosovo-Serbia negotiations are in a critical phase. Continuous provocations from the Serbian side are hindering progress. But I hope that with Western mediation, a solution will be found, and finally, the people of Kosovo will live in peace.
