Maliqi: Attacks in northern Kosovo likely orchestrated by Russian intelligence operating in the region

English

Gazeta Express

16/04/2022 18:59

Kosovo political commentator, Shkelzen Maliqi, during an interview with Gazeta Express has commented recent developments in northern part of the country following repeated attacks against Kosovo Police over the last few days.

Maliqi said that these attacks most likely are orchestrated by Russia and their intelligence services operating in the region. But despite tensions he rules out a potential conflict between Kosovo and Serbia. He says that recent incidents in the north, might reflect Moscow’s wish to ignite conflict in northern Kosovo, adding however that Belgrade is more cautious because, as he said, in a case of a conflict with Kosovo under current circumstances, Belgrade cannot count on Russia’s support who are busy fighting in Ukraine.  Asked whether recent attacks targeting the Kosovo Police are a retaliation on Pristina’s decision to ban holding of 3 April Serbian elections in Kosovo’s territory, Maliqi said the goal of these attacks reflects the hope for annexation of northern part of Kosovo inhabited by Serbs, adding however that authorities in Belgrade are afraid of any potential confrontation with KFOR as NATO’s security structure operating in Kosovo. Maliqi advises Kosovo authorities to act responsible facing these provocations and focus on improving of relations with the Western allies. /GazetaExpress/