Berat Buzhala: „Albin Kurti Has Polarized Kosovo Both Internally and Externally“

Kosovo’s political tensions continue to escalate as prominent journalist and director of the news portal Nacionale, Berat Buzhala, once again delivers sharp criticism against Prime Minister Albin Kurti and his Self-Determination Movement (Vetëvendosje).

Buzhala, known for his outspoken stance against the current government, finds himself increasingly targeted by Kurti and his allies, who accuse him of being a so-called „ally of Serbia.“

After U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Special Operations under President Donald Trump, Richard Grenell, issued yet another scathing critique of Kurti, labeling him an „not trustworthy partner“ for the United States. Grenell’s statement prompted Buzhala to respond on social media, amplifying his criticism of Kosovo’s prime minister.

“Kurti and his lackeys have been declaring for several days now that ‘whoever does not vote for their party is with Serbia,’” Buzhala tweeted.

“In 25 years of parliamentary democracy, the risk in Kosovo has never been higher or more serious.”

Albin Kurti has polarized Kosovo both internally and externally. He and his lackeys have been declaring for several days now that “whoever does not vote for their party is with Serbia.” In 25 years of parliamentary democracy, the risk in Kosovo has never been higher or more… https://t.co/krmLq9cyXh

— berat buzhala (@buzhala) February 3, 2025

Accusations and Polarization

Buzhala’s remarks highlight growing concerns about the rhetoric coming from Kurti and his ministers, who have repeatedly targeted independent media and critics, such as Buzhala, labeling them as enemies of Kosovo.

However, not everyone agrees with Grenell or Buzhala. Speaking to KTV in Pristina, U.S.-based Albanian activist Agim Aliçkaj criticized Grenell’s comments, calling them „a blatant interference in Kosovo’s internal affairs.“

He went on to argue that Grenell still does not represent the U.S. administration and suggested that „there are suspicions he may be corrupt.“

Political analyst Xhavit Drenori echoed Aliçkaj’s criticism of Grenell, while journalist Melazim Koci took a different stance.

In the same KTV program, Koci acknowledged the deteriorating relations between Pristina and Washington, calling it an undeniable reality.

Meanwhile, at recent pre-election rallies for Self-Determination, photos have surfaced showing an increased prominence of the U.S. flag. During previous such gatherings, the so-called „Greater Albania“ flag was also prominently displayed.

This flag represents territories from five sovereign states, including Kosovo and three others that have recognized Kosovo’s independence. Notably, Prime Minister Kurti himself was recently photographed alongside the Greater Albania flag.

Despite the criticism and growing diplomatic concerns, Self-Determination remains confident, anticipating as many as 500,000 votes in the upcoming elections.