Expert Fidair Berisha: The EU must respond to Dačić’s threats and make Serbia’s funding conditional

Ivica Dačić’s statement that the Serbian flag will one day fly over Prizren has renewed concerns about Belgrade’s political aims toward Kosovo. The mention of the city in this context has been viewed as a nationalist message that directly touches on Kosovo’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Security expert Fidair Berisha told “Bota sot” that Dačić’s statement should be seen as a provocation and as an expression of the continuation of Serbia’s hegemonic policy, with territorial claims against Kosovo.

According to Berisha, such warnings should not be ignored, as history has shown that nationalism and territorial claims can endanger peace. He believes the international community should respond in a timely manner in order to prevent any potential escalation.

The expert emphasizes that the absence of a clear response and concrete measures could encourage Belgrade to continue its threatening rhetoric toward Kosovo.

Berisha calls on the European Union to treat all parties equally and not tolerate claims that undermine the security or sovereignty of another state. According to him, political responses must be accompanied by concrete steps.

He proposes linking financial aid for Serbia to its conduct and respect for Kosovo’s sovereignty. Berisha also says European states should support the suspension of funds for Serbia and demand accountability from Belgrade for statements and actions that could harm the stability of the region.

“Kosovo now has greater capacities to protect its sovereignty”

Analyzing Kosovo’s security capabilities, Berisha emphasizes that Serbia must understand that the current situation is not the same as it was in 1998–1999. According to him, Kosovo’s security institutions have developed and established cooperation with international partners.

He says that Kosovo now has a much more consolidated security architecture than it did in 1998/1999, and that any threat or claim against it must be assessed in light of the current reality.

Berisha adds that Kosovo is no longer in the state of war it was in nearly three decades ago, as it now possesses greater capacities to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

However, the expert stresses that strengthening defensive capabilities should not diminish the importance of peace and stability. In his view, diplomacy and coordination with international allies remain essential elements in preventing any potential escalation.

“Peace, diplomacy and cooperation with allies remain priorities for the country’s security,” Berisha concludes to “Bota sot”.