Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has strongly criticized the recently signed defense cooperation agreement between Kosovo, Albania, and Croatia, claiming it violates a 1996 sub-regional arms control agreement. Speaking after a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Vučić asserted that NATO was likely not informed about the memorandum.
“This agreement is a violation of the 1996 sub-regional arms control treaty. From Croatia’s response, it is clear they do not care much about it. I am almost certain that NATO was not informed about this and was not told which agreements were breached,” Vučić stated.
The Defense Cooperation Declaration, signed yesterday in Tirana by Kosovar Defense Minister Ejup Maqedonci, Albanian Defense Minister Pirro Vengu, and Croatian Defense Minister Ivan Anušić, aims to enhance regional security. However, Serbia has demanded an urgent explanation from Albania and Croatia.
“They have started an arms race in the region. The situation is difficult for us, but we got their message. We will defend our country and deter any potential aggressor, no matter how powerful,” Vučić added.
The Serbian president also discussed Kosovo’s situation with NATO’s Mark Rutte, focusing on Serbia’s military ties with KFOR and developments in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Vučić described the day as a successful one for Serbia despite the tensions.
