The Special Prosecution of the Republic of Kosovo (PSRK) has formally welcomed the guilty verdict against Slobodan Radenković, who was sentenced today for his role in the violent unrest in Zveçan in May 2023.
Radenković was found guilty of “Assault on an official person” and “Participation in a crowd committing a criminal offense and hooliganism.” The Basic Court of Prishtina handed down a unique sentence of two years in prison and a €15,000 fine.
A Victory for the Rule of Law
In an official statement, the Special Prosecution emphasized that this verdict is a critical milestone in establishing justice for the victims of the 2023 violence, which targeted both KFOR peacekeepers and Kosovo Police officers.
- Message of Deterrence: The PSRK noted that the ruling sends a “clear message” that criminal acts against officials and public order will not be tolerated.
- Efficiency of Justice: The prosecution highlighted that the approval of the plea deal (marrëveshja për pranimin e fajësisë) demonstrates the efficiency of the legal system, allowing for a faster and more effective resolution of high-stakes criminal cases.
- Institutional Reinforcement: By securing a conviction for “hooliganism” and “assault,” the institution believes it has strengthened the legal framework protecting those who maintain security in northern Kosovo.
Context of the Sentence
The sentencing follows a detailed investigation into the events of May 29, 2023, where ethnic tensions in Zveçan escalated into physical confrontations. Radenković’s admission of guilt was a central component of today’s proceedings, which the prosecution views as a validation of their evidentiary findings.
Summary of Today’s Key Legal & Security Events (April 29, 2026)
| Entity | Action/Statement | Significance |
| Prishtina Court | Sentenced Slobodan Radenković to 2 years + fine. | Accountability for 2023 Zveçan violence. |
| Special Prosecution | Formally welcomed the court’s decision. | Reinforces the “Rule of Law” narrative in the North. |
| NATO (Adm. Dragone) | Confirmed no reduction in KFOR troops. | Ensures continued security buffer in the region. |
| U.S. Congress | Proposed naming Embassy after Eliot Engel. | Symbolizes long-term U.S. commitment to Kosovo. |
This judicial outcome is seen by local and international observers as a necessary step toward closing the chapter on the 2023 unrest, even as security analysts warn of potential future “coordinated crises” in the region.
