The Government of Kosovo has informed the European Union after Serbia blocked funds allocated for Albanians in the Preševo Valley.
According to officials, around €2 million—intended to support education, agriculture, and civil society—was returned after being blocked by Serbian authorities. The head of the Albanian National Council, Enkel Rexhepi, described the move as politically motivated and harmful to local development.
He warned that the blockade could have direct consequences, including lack of school textbooks for thousands of students, reduced scholarships, and limited support for farmers and NGOs.
Rexhepi added that this marks the fifth time such funds have been blocked, noting the absence of clear justification from Serbian authorities.
The Kosovo government condemned what it described as a repeated pattern of institutional obstruction, stating that it has raised the issue with the EU and other international actors. Officials noted that funds allocated in October 2025 and additional amounts in 2026—totaling over €1.8 million—have been affected.
Meanwhile, the mayor of Bujanoc, Arbër Pajaziti, criticized the Albanian National Council, arguing that similar issues have persisted since 2023 and calling for more effective coordination to ensure funds are utilized.
For several years, Kosovo has regularly allocated financial support for the Preševo Valley, benefiting students, farmers, and local organizations.
