The United States says that stability in the Western Balkans and the advancement of American economic interests in the region make the U.S. “safer, stronger, and more prosperous,” according to a new report by the U.S. Department of State.
The report states that “unresolved disputes and lingering divisions undermine regional stability.”
The document, published on the official website of the United States Department of State under the title “United States Policy for Promoting Stability and Prosperity in the Western Balkans,” was prepared following a request from the U.S. Congress earlier this year.
Regarding Kosovo, the report emphasizes that the United States continues to encourage both Kosovo and Serbia to make progress toward the normalization of relations, with the goal of achieving a lasting, negotiated, and mutually acceptable agreement.
On security matters, Washington states that American troops continue to participate in KFOR, describing it as a key component in ensuring a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement in Kosovo.
The document also reiterates support for the transformation of the Kosovo Security Force into a professional territorial defense force. In addition, it highlights the modernization of coal-fired power plants and coal gasification projects in Kosovo as part of regional energy priorities.
The report describes the Western Balkans as a region of direct importance to U.S. security and economic interests, stressing that unresolved instability creates opportunities for malign foreign influence.
According to the document, Russia and China are actively seeking to exploit instability, corruption, and weak governance in the region. It states that Moscow fuels ethnic tensions, finances destabilizing actors, and uses energy supplies as political leverage, while Beijing expands its influence through trade, state-backed loans, propaganda, bribery, and ties with local elites.
The report also warns that organized crime groups from the Western Balkans pose a “direct threat” to U.S. national security through drug trafficking, money laundering, illegal migration, cybercrime, and connections with international criminal cartels.
Furthermore, the document highlights American interest in expanding economic and trade cooperation across the region, including investments in infrastructure, energy, and transportation projects.
