The British Embassy in Kosovo has condemned statements made by Serbian Minister Snežana Paunović, describing them as “disgusting” and unacceptable in today’s society.
In a statement published on the embassy’s Facebook page, the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) said it condemns the Serbian minister’s comments, including her references to the ethnic cleansing of Kosovo.
“We condemn the statements by Serbian Minister Snežana Paunović, including her references to the ethnic cleansing of Kosovo. They are completely disgusting and have no place in today’s society,” the FCDO stated.
The statement added that such rhetoric risks reopening old divisions and increasing tensions in the region.
“At a time when countries in the Western Balkans are focused on building a peaceful, stable, and multi-ethnic future, statements like these seek to reopen old divisions and fuel tensions. Responsible political leaders must reject such language clearly and without hesitation. We take note of President Vučić’s distancing from these comments,” the statement continued.
Kosovo has declared Snežana Paunović, Serbia’s Minister of Public Administration and Local Self-Government, persona non grata, permanently banning her from entering or transiting through Kosovo’s territory.
The decision followed her controversial interview in which she stated that “if she had been in Slobodan Milošević’s position, she would have ethnically cleansed Kosovo in 1998.”
The remarks have triggered widespread international criticism. Anitta Hipper, spokesperson for the European Union, said that “there is no place in Europe for rhetoric that justifies or promotes ethnic cleansing.”
Hipper added that such statements contradict Serbia’s commitments under the EU-facilitated dialogue on the normalization of relations with Kosovo, calling on political leaders to act responsibly and avoid inflammatory rhetoric.
“We expect all leaders to act responsibly, refrain from inflammatory rhetoric, and contribute to creating an atmosphere of trust and regional stability,” Hipper said.
