Critics and political analysts have raised concerns over what they describe as the notable silence of Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić regarding recent developments in Kosovo, while simultaneously warning about the alleged threat posed by a growing military partnership between Prishtina, Zagreb, and Tirana.
Observers speaking to Serbian media suggest that Vučić’s reduced public commentary on Kosovo over the past two years may reflect political calculations aimed at avoiding association with policy setbacks. They argue that Serbia appears increasingly reluctant to directly confront decisions made by Kosovo authorities, particularly new regulations affecting the Serbian community living there.
Concerns Over New Kosovo Regulations
Recent legislation, including rules governing foreign residency requirements and vehicle registration, has generated anxiety among ethnic Serbs in Kosovo due to its potential impact on everyday life. Implementation of these measures, initially scheduled for January, has been postponed until March following public concerns and an information campaign.
Independent Serbian lawmaker Žarko Ristić accused Vučić of abandoning the Serbian population in Kosovo, claiming the president’s silence reflects political failure and strategic retreat.
“He no longer has anything to say and cannot fight for Kosovo because a series of deliberate mistakes has led to this situation,” Ristić stated, adding that continued government involvement could threaten the stability of Vučić’s administration.
Ristić further alleged that Kosovo-related rhetoric is often used by the Serbian leadership for domestic political gain, rather than as part of a consistent strategic policy.
Analysts Suggest Strategic Avoidance
Similarly, political analyst Milica Andrić Rakić noted that Vučić has significantly reduced public discussion about Kosovo in recent years, likely to avoid appearing weak amid diplomatic challenges.
She argued that direct confrontation with Prishtina could create additional instability for Serbia’s foreign policy positioning. Instead, she said, Belgrade has focused primarily on financial assistance and social support programs for the Serbian community in Kosovo rather than political or institutional countermeasures.
Escalating Regional Security Rhetoric
Despite his relative silence on policy changes in Kosovo, Vučić has strongly criticized the expanding defense cooperation between Kosovo, Albania, and Croatia, portraying it as a security threat to Serbia and signaling plans for increased military spending.
Critics argue that this messaging risks escalating regional tensions, while diverting attention from domestic and diplomatic challenges related to Kosovo.
Broader Impact on Serbian Community
The new Kosovo regulations could significantly affect employment, education, and healthcare access for Serbs living in Kosovo. Critics warn that stricter administrative procedures may lead to increased migration and demographic changes, potentially reshaping the region’s political and social landscape.
Political analysts caution that the combination of heightened nationalist rhetoric and limited policy engagement could further complicate dialogue efforts between Belgrade and Prishtina, raising concerns about long-term regional stability.
