In view of tensions in Kosovo, the Serbian government has placed the army on high alert. Serbian Defense Minister Milos Vucevic said last night that President Aleksandar Vucic had ordered “the highest level of combat readiness”. Army chief Milan Mojsilovic had previously stated that he had been sent to the Kosovo border due to Vucic’s “complicated situation”.
Kosovo, with its predominantly Albanian population, declared its independence from Serbia in 2008, but is still considered a breakaway territory by Belgrade. Despite the EU’s mediation efforts, neighboring countries have been at odds for years. Belgrade is encouraging the Serb minority in northern Kosovo in its attempts to challenge Pristina’s authority.
Tensions on the Serbian border have risen again in recent weeks. Hundreds of Kosovo Serbs have been blocking traffic in northern Kosovo for weeks. Shots fired at police at night and an attack on EULEX forces with a stun grenade sparked international concern.