The FBI has joined the investigation into the November 29 attack on the Ibër-Lepenc canal infrastructure in the northern municipality of Zubin Potok, Kosovo. The involvement of the U.S. agency was confirmed by U.S. ambassadors in Pristina and Belgrade, Jeff Hovenier and Christopher Hill, respectively.
In response to queries from Gazeta Express, the FBI’s National Press Office in Washington stated:
“For any details regarding the FBI’s involvement in the investigation of the Zubin Potok attack, we refer you to local authorities.”
U.S. Commitment to a Comprehensive Investigation
Ambassador Hovenier, speaking on December 20, emphasized the U.S. commitment to assisting Kosovo’s law enforcement through FBI collaboration to ensure a thorough and credible investigation.
“We have brought the support of the FBI to work directly and comprehensively with Kosovo’s law enforcement agencies to identify those responsible and ensure the investigation leads to appropriate conclusions,” Hovenier said.
Earlier, on December 2, following a meeting with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti, Hovenier had stated it was too early to determine responsibility for the attack.
Differing Perspectives on Responsibility
While Ambassador Hovenier refrained from assigning blame, Ambassador Hill, speaking to Serbian media outlet RTS, ruled out any evidence implicating Belgrade in the attack.
“We certainly see no evidence pointing to Belgrade, but someone did it, and a full investigation must be conducted,” Hill asserted.
Prime Minister Albin Kurti, however, was quick to hold Belgrade accountable, calling the attack a form of kinetic warfare and likening it to Russian tactics in Ukraine.
Context of the Attack
The Ibër-Lepenc canal is a critical infrastructure in Kosovo, and the attack has heightened tensions in the region. The FBI’s involvement signifies international efforts to ensure impartiality and transparency in uncovering the perpetrators.
