A protester flashes a traditional Serbian Orthodox three-finger sign during a protest in Belgrade February 27, 2007. Protesters replaced the stars in the U.S. flag with the swastika symbol.
Photo: Reuters
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US, Europe Poised to Recognize Kosovo despite Russia’s Opposition
As a result of Russia’s opposition to Kosovo’s independence, the status of the region will be determined in the framework of the EU and NATO instead of UN, forecasted CFR senior expert Charles Kupchan.
According to Kupchan, the tough standing of Russia prevents from reaching any decision on the Kosovo status in the Security Council. So, if Kosovo proclaims independence, it will pass under control and protection of the European Union and NATO.
Kupchan’s conclusions signal the United States and over 20 European Union countries are poised to recognize Kosovo’s independence all opposition of Russia and Serbia notwithstanding.
Serbia’s breakaway region Kosovo, where the Albanians majority is overwhelming, could suffer from another outburst of violence, the influential expert forecasted. But with Kosovo out of the UN competence, NATO will control the military contingent and prevent new ethnic clashes.
Unilateral declaration of independence by Pristine is a decided matter already, Kupchan was sure.
The trio of international mediators is due to present the report on Pristine-Belgrade negotiations to United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Friday.
www.kommersant.com
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