Security expert Drizan Shala has warned that the recent arrests of Kosovo citizens on Serbian territory are not isolated legal actions, but rather a deliberate political and psychological strategy orchestrated by the regime of Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić.
Speaking to local media, Shala stressed that calls to temporarily close the Kosovo–Serbia border, although emotionally understandable, would be economically damaging and strategically counterproductive for Kosovo.
Arrests as a Tool of Political and Psychological Pressure
According to Shala, Belgrade is systematically using arrests to send a political message, targeting individuals with past links to the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) or those who served in Kosovo’s post-war security institutions.
“Serbia is using arrests as a political signal. These actions are aimed at psychological intimidation, reputational damage, and discouraging trust in Kosovo’s institutions,” Shala said.
He emphasized that these practices reflect unchanged hostile policies under the Vučić regime, which continues to view Kosovo not as a neighboring state, but as a political and security adversary.
Border Closure Would Serve Serbia’s Interests
Shala strongly criticized proposals to close the Kosovo–Serbia border, including those voiced by lawyer Arianit Koci, arguing that such a move would play directly into Belgrade’s hands.
“Closing the border would not punish Serbia—it would damage Kosovo’s economy and strengthen Serbia’s narrative internationally,” he warned.
He added that Kosovo citizens should be clearly advised to avoid transiting through Serbia, particularly those who may be targets of Serbian security structures, but stressed that state decisions must remain institutional, coordinated, and rational.
Increased Coordination Between Serbian Security Structures
Shala highlighted enhanced operational coordination between Serbia’s intelligence agency (BIA) and border police, noting that integrated databases now allow for faster detentions and selective targeting of Kosovo Albanians.
“These actions go beyond law enforcement. They are designed to create fear, apply political pressure, and manipulate public opinion—especially in Kosovo and the Preševo Valley,” he stated.
Economic Risks of Disrupting Regional Transit
The expert warned that any disruption of the Balkan transit corridor, particularly through Serbia, would have immediate economic consequences for Kosovo.
A significant portion of Kosovo’s food products, raw materials, and consumer goods enter the country through transit routes passing via Serbia. Blocking or restricting these corridors would:
- Increase import costs
- Raise market prices
- Directly burden citizens and businesses
- Lower living standards
“Populist and impulsive measures may generate short-term political applause, but they cause long-term economic and social damage,” Shala cautioned.
Call for Strategic and Coordinated State Action
Shala concluded by urging Kosovo’s institutions to pursue a pragmatic, strategic, and internationally coordinated approach, focusing on:
- Protecting citizens through diplomacy
- Diversifying supply corridors
- Strengthening economic resilience
- Exposing Serbia’s practices at international forums
“Serbia, under Vučić, has not changed its discourse toward Kosovo—and it will not do so voluntarily. Only measured, institutional action protects Kosovo’s national and economic interests,” he concluded.
