Kosovo’s Minister of Defense, Ejup Maqedonci, commemorated the 28th anniversary of the Dukagjin Epic, emphasizing that it stands as one of the most glorious events in the nation’s history.
In a Facebook post, Minister Maqedonci highlighted that the Battle of Gllogjan proved the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) was no longer a small resistance cell, but a people’s army with reach across Kosovo.
Full statement:
“The Dukagjin Epic is one of the most glorious chapters in our modern history — a testament to the resilience, sacrifice, and determination of our people in their struggle for freedom.
On 24 March 1998, Serbian occupying forces surrounded Gllogjan in an attempt to crush armed resistance. But the fighters of the Kosovo Liberation Army demonstrated that no siege, no force, and no occupier can stop a people determined to be free.
The Battle of Gllogjan confirmed that the KLA had evolved into a nationwide army born from the people themselves. This followed the battle at Gjashtë Lisat in Likoshan on 28 February and the heroic resistance of the Jashari family in Prekaz on 5–7 March 1998.
This was our only path to end the centuries-long rule and oppression of fascist Serbia. It was a just, pure, and sacred war for freedom. Against us stood a genocidal machinery; against them stood a people fighting to live free.
The justice of our cause also brought international support. Exactly one year after the Battle of Gllogjan, on 24 March 1999, NATO began its intervention against Serbian targets — a historic moment that united our sacrifice with the conscience of the democratic world.
Martyrs and all those who fell for freedom are the foundation of our Republic. Remembering them is not only an honor but a permanent duty to safeguard our liberty, state, and national dignity.
Today, on this history of sacrifice and resistance, the Republic of Kosovo has built and strengthened its army — a modern, professional force ready to defend the territory, uphold peace and stability, and ensure that the genocide of 1998–1999 is never repeated.
Highest respects to the Dukagjin Epic. Eternal glory to the martyrs and all who gave their lives for freedom!”
