The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its strong support for Kosovo’s sovereignty and independence following the verdict by the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague, stressing that the proceedings concerned individual defendants and did not constitute a judgment on Kosovo’s statehood or its right to determine its future.
In an official statement, the UK Minister for Europe, Lord Wood, said Britain respected the independence of the Specialist Chambers and its judicial process, while remaining committed to justice, accountability and reconciliation across the Western Balkans.
“The United Kingdom remains a close friend and partner of Kosovo, strongly supporting its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, as well as peace in the Western Balkans,” Lord Wood said.
He also highlighted Britain’s role in NATO’s intervention in 1999 and its subsequent support for Kosovo’s independence.
“We are proud of the role we played together with NATO allies in helping to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe in 1999 and in supporting Kosovo’s independence in 2008,” he said.
Lord Wood described the Hague ruling as an important moment but emphasized that it should not be interpreted as a judgment on Kosovo’s political status.
“Today’s judgment by the Kosovo Specialist Chambers is an important moment, but it is not a judgment on Kosovo’s statehood, sovereignty or its right to determine its future,” he said.
The British minister expressed sympathy for victims and their families and urged political leaders and public figures to respond responsibly.
“The findings of the Court concern individuals and should not be used to fuel tensions between communities or across the region,” Lord Wood said.
He called on political leaders and public figures to promote calm and ensure that all reactions remain peaceful, placing public safety above political considerations.
The statement comes as Kosovo reacts to the verdict in the case against former KLA leaders Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi and Rexhep Selimi.
The UK said it would continue working with partners across the Western Balkans and beyond to support peace, justice and a secure and prosperous future for all communities.
