May 9 marked Victory Day in Russia, a date commemorated with a military parade in Moscow. Standing alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and other autocratic leaders was Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić a presence that sparked backlash from European and Kosovar leaders alike.
Acting Minister of Defense of Kosovo, Ejup Maqedonci, stated that Vučić’s participation in the Moscow parade is a clear reflection of Serbia’s strong ties with Russia.
“Serbia continues to demonstrate its close connections with autocratic regimes and their historic allies like the Russian Federation not just formally, by attending events like the military parade in Moscow, but also substantively, through cooperation in arms procurement and military strategy,” Maqedonci told RTK.
He emphasized that Serbia’s expansionist and destabilizing stance is deeply rooted in its constitution, which still claims Kosovo as part of its territory an ongoing reflection of Belgrade’s aspirations toward Kosovo.
“Serbia has not changed its hegemonic approach toward Kosovo. This is constantly evident in their statements, actions, and in the support that Serbian security institutions provide to elements involved in terrorist attacks and destabilizing activities within our country,” Maqedonci added.
He also referenced the trilateral defense memorandum signed in March between Albania, Croatia, and Kosovo, clarifying that the agreement was not intended as a threat to any country.
“The declaration aimed to unite countries that share the same values, signaling that we stand ready to support one another in cases where the security of the entire Western Balkans is at risk,” Maqedonci stated.
Highlighting Serbia’s threatening posture, Maqedonci recalled the September 24, 2023 terrorist attack in Banjska, carried out by a Serbian paramilitary group, which resulted in the death of Kosovo police sergeant Afrim Bunjaku. He also mentioned the recent terrorist attack targeting critical infrastructure in Varragë, Zubin Potok, specifically the Ibër-Lepenc canal system.
These events, according to Maqedonci, are further proof of Serbia’s continued ambitions against the sovereignty of the Republic of Kosovo.
