Kosovo’s government has received significant backlash from international allies, including the United States and the European Union, after closing nine Serbian post offices in predominantly ethnic Serb northern municipalities. The U.S. expressed its “deep disappointment” with the action.
Serbia claims it distributes millions of euros in pensions and welfare to Serbian residents in Kosovo. The Serbian postal service is integral to this distribution, but the use of Serbian dinars for these payments contravenes a central bank ruling that prohibits the use of the Serbian currency for all transactions in Kosovo.
This decision, coupled with subsequent raids on Serbian banks in northern Kosovo, has led Kosovo’s allies to urge the country to refrain from interfering with Serbian institutions in these areas. Both the U.S. and the European Union have criticized the latest actions.
“The uncoordinated measures by Kosovo’s government increase risks for both Kosovan citizens and KFOR soldiers, escalate regional tensions unnecessarily, and damage Kosovo’s credibility as a reliable international partner,” stated the U.S. Embassy in Pristina, referencing the NATO-led peacekeeping force. The EU also condemned Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s government for not coordinating with international partners, stating that such actions “cannot resolve issues related to the normalization process between Kosovo and Serbia.” Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic reiterated his country’s desire to maintain peace but criticized Kurti for the decision on the post offices.
Kosovar police reported that the post offices were closed on Monday due to a lack of licenses and non-registration with the Kosovo Business Registration Agency.
Deputy Prime Minister Besnik Bislimi defended the closures, stating that the authorities were upholding the rule of law and constitutional order by shutting down the branches.
“Parallel structures and illegal activities have no place in Kosovo,” Bislimi asserted, urging international partners and allies to support this stance.
