Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani visited Finland for an official trip, where she gave an interview to Finnish media outlet Yle. In the interview, Osmani discussed Russia’s aggression against Ukraine and highlighted the growing propaganda efforts Moscow has been directing at the Western Balkans.
According to Osmani, Russia has tripled its spending on propaganda and disinformation in the region, signaling its special interest in the Balkans.
“This shows that Russia has a particular interest in the region,” Osmani said, further stressing the ongoing tensions in the Western Balkans.
Osmani also remarked on the parallels between Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Russian President Vladimir Putin, asserting that both leaders share hegemonic mindsets that deny the existence of neighboring countries.
“The situation is concerning because Serbia continually acts according to Russia’s desires. President Vučić, like Vladimir Putin, thinks in a hegemonic way, denying the existence of neighboring countries. When you read the academic writings of these nations, Serbs and Russians believe they are sacred peoples under which others must live. This imperialist mindset is dangerous and belongs to the past,” Osmani stated.
Osmani also addressed the meeting between Serbian Patriarch Porfirije and Putin, where the discussion reportedly included the occupation of Montenegro, Bosnia, and Kosovo.
She expressed concern over some European Union officials seemingly thinking that Vučić could only be stopped through concessions that would keep him content. According to Osmani, this approach has only led to further violence.
“However, this has only led to more violence,” Osmani said.
The president also expressed her surprise that the European Union is increasing its support for Serbia while official Belgrade continues to stir violence in neighboring countries and avoid implementing already agreed-upon deals.
Osmani emphasized that Kosovo has never been the source of tension in the region.
“Instead, our country has constantly opened the door for friendship and cooperation with Serbia. Serbia has never apologized for the war crimes or crimes against humanity committed against our people. We have never sought revenge, but justice,” Osmani stated.
She concluded by reaffirming that Kosovo is here to stay and that there is no turning back.
“Kosovo is here to stay, and there is no going back to the past,” Osmani declared.
