Former U.S. Congressman Tony Hall has spoken out strongly against the ongoing trial of former Kosovo Liberation Army (UÇK) leaders at The Hague, calling the process profoundly unjust. In an exclusive interview for Info Magazine on Klan Kosova, Hall criticized the prolonged detention and judicial delays faced by the accused, who have now been imprisoned for nearly five years without a verdict.
“This is one of the most unjust situations I have ever seen,” said Hall. “What these men and their families are going through is simply unfair. Keeping them in prison for almost five years while the trial drags on—it’s wrong.”
A longtime advocate for human rights and peace, Hall expressed deep admiration for the people of Kosovo, describing them as courageous, resilient, and full of hope. He emphasized that Kosovo continues to have steadfast friends in the United States.
“I remember the war. I remember reading and hearing about those difficult times, and I recall the meetings with Kosovars who came to the United States. I come from Dayton, Ohio—the city where the peace agreement was signed 30 years ago. That agreement didn’t solve all the problems that later affected Kosovo, but I’m aware of the hardships you went through,” Hall reflected.
“The people of Kosovo are wonderful, brave, and inspiring. I truly care about you. I want to tell you to preserve that incredible spirit. Don’t forget to pray I do and don’t forget that you have many good friends in the United States.”
Hall’s remarks come at a time when increasing numbers of international voices are raising concerns about the fairness and duration of the Kosovo Specialist Chambers’ proceedings in The Hague, where several former KLA leaders, including Hashim Thaçi, are on trial for alleged war crimes. Critics argue the court has yet to meet standards of timely justice, while supporters claim it is essential for accountability.
