Amid widespread reports of budget reductions under President Donald Trump’s second administration, the US State Department (DASH) has confirmed that no embassies or consulates are closing, including those in the Balkans or in Kosovo.
In response to questions from Gazeta Express, a State Department spokesperson stated:
“There have been no announcements of embassy or consulate closures, and operations are continuing as normal.”
This clarification comes after international outlets such as The New York Times, Washington Post, Reuters, Le Monde, and AFP reported on a potential 50% cut in the State Department’s budget, citing internal memos suggesting possible impacts on diplomatic missions worldwide.
However, the spokesperson assured that while the Department continues to assess its programs and global positioning to meet modern challenges, no official downsizing plans are in effect:
“The State Department continues evaluating programs and our global posture to ensure we are best positioned to address today’s challenges on behalf of the American people.”
Currently, the US Embassy in Pristina is operating under Chargé d’Affaires Anu Prattipati, following the departure of Ambassador Jeff Hovenier in December 2024.
The United States has maintained a diplomatic presence in Kosovo since 1996, initially through a US Information Service Office. Between 1999 and 2008, this office functioned as the US diplomatic mission in Kosovo. Following Kosovo’s declaration of independence in 2008, the US Embassy in Pristina was officially established on April 8, 2008.
Key Highlights:
- No embassy closures in the Balkans or Kosovo, despite reported US budget cuts.
- Operations in Pristina continue normally, under Anu Prattipati.
- The State Department is evaluating global programs, but remains committed to its diplomatic presence.
