During an official visit to the United Kingdom, Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti participated in the London Defence Conference, where he spoke about hybrid warfare, regional security, and geopolitical tensions in the Western Balkans.
Hybrid warfare as a growing global threat
Kurti described hybrid warfare as a preparatory phase for conventional conflict rather than a substitute for it, warning that it has become a widespread global phenomenon, particularly visible during electoral cycles.
He stressed the need for stronger resilience and adaptability in response to these challenges, including their impact on the Western Balkans.
Security concerns in the region
Addressing security dynamics in the region, Kurti warned against complacency, stating that Serbia acts as a “proxy of Russia” and represents a continuing security concern for Kosovo.
He claimed that there are dozens of forward operational bases near Kosovo’s borders and referred to the presence of Russian-linked structures and media influence in Serbia, including outlets such as Russia Today and Sputnik.
Kurti argued that these developments require sustained vigilance and stronger coordination with international partners.
Call for stronger European security cooperation
The Kosovo Prime Minister also connected regional stability to broader European security, emphasizing that the war in Ukraine represents a turning point for Europe’s strategic unity.
He expressed cautious optimism that the European Union, NATO, the United Kingdom, and the United States could play a decisive role in shaping long-term stability if current security challenges are effectively managed.
Defense industry and youth engagement
Kurti also highlighted the importance of strengthening defense capabilities, including military production and armament capacity, as part of broader national resilience strategies.
In addition, he emphasized youth engagement as a key pillar of social stability, warning that generational gaps and disinformation could weaken societies and make them more vulnerable to hybrid threats.
