The longstanding dispute between Serbia and its former province, Kosovo, has been a source of tension for decades. The war between the two entities from 1998 to 1999 resulted in a tragic loss of more than 10,000 lives, predominantly Kosovo Albanians. Since then, Belgrade has consistently refused to recognize Kosovo's 2008 declaration of independence. After extensive discussions, including separate meetings with Kosovo's Prime Minister, Albin Kurti, and Serbia's President, Aleksandar Vučić, Borrells emphasized their shared consensus on the urgent need for a solution or a way forward.

The EU's chief diplomat stressed that the bloc has urged both sides to promptly announce early local elections, with unconditional participation from Kosovo Serbs, in all four municipalities. Borrells highlighted that the crux of the issue lies in this crucial step, which forms the core of both the problem and the solution.

"Early elections. New elections, as soon as possible, with full participation," Borrells underscored, emphasizing the significance of this measure.

Recent tensions further escalated when Kosovo police seized control of local municipality buildings in northern Kosovo, an area where Serbs constitute a majority. This move was aimed at installing ethnic Albanian mayors who had been elected in a local election that the Serb community overwhelmingly boycotted.

Responding to the intensifying situation, Serbia raised the state of alertness of its troops along the border, and clashes between Kosovo Serbs, Kosovo police, and NATO-led peacekeepers have occurred in recent weeks. NATO has deployed additional forces to the region to address the situation.

Last week, tensions persisted as stun grenades were detonated near Kosovo police stations in the northern part of the country, and Kosovo Serbs organized protests in front of municipality buildings.

Borrells highlighted that the EU has consistently urged both parties to restore calm and return to the negotiating table. However, he expressed concern that the recent developments have moved in the opposite direction, stating this during a press briefing while reading a prepared statement.

The agreement on early elections represents a critical step toward de-escalating tensions and fostering stability in the region. The EU and international actors continue to encourage dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia, recognizing the significance of reaching a comprehensive and sustainable resolution to the ongoing dispute. (ILKHA)