Christopher Hyland, a prominent supporter of the Albanian cause in the United States, stated on Friday that Serbia is hindering progress in the dialogue with Kosovo because it benefits from its relationship with Russia and China. He added that Kosovo should be an important part of NATO.
Calls for Kosovo’s Inclusion in NATO and U.S. Support
Following a meeting with acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti, Hyland emphasized the importance of Kosovo joining NATO. Regarding the dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia, Hyland expressed that the U.S. should allow a mature democracy like Kosovo to move toward an agreement with Serbia.
The relationship between Kosovo and Serbia has been strained. Serbia has not been implementing the 2023 Brussels Agreement and its Ohrid Annex. Kosovo has accused Serbia of obstructing the implementation process and supporting illegal structures in the north. Meanwhile, Serbia has criticized Kosovo for its refusal to establish the Association of Serb-majority Municipalities.
Despite pressure from the European Union and the United States, both parties have shown little political will to take concrete steps to implement the agreed-upon obligations, especially after the terrorist attack in Banjska, Zvecan.
Hyland also commented on the political gridlock, saying, “It’s time for compromise,” and spoke about the financial crisis at Radio Television of Kosovo (RTK), a consequence of the political stalemate.
