In response to inquiries from KoSSev, the U.S. Embassy in Pristina addressed reports regarding the alleged suspension of police training programs for the Kosovo Police. The embassy referred to its statement from August 30, which warned that „the Government’s actions will affect the quality and nature of our cooperation with the Ministry of Internal Affairs and its subordinate elements.“ The embassy clarified that it is currently reviewing the situation and that no decisions have been made at this time.
The issue arose after RTV Dukagjini reported that the U.S. Embassy allegedly had canceled several training programs for the Kosovo Police, citing unnamed sources. The media outlet claimed that the cancellations were in response to the Kosovo government’s recent actions in northern Kosovo, which the U.S. Embassy had criticized.
These actions, according to the embassy’s previous statement, could impact U.S. cooperation with Kosovo’s Ministry of Internal Affairs.
The Kosovo Police issued a statement in response to the reports, denying the claims but stopping short of outright refuting RTV Dukagjini’s information. They acknowledged the U.S. Embassy’s criticism and expressed their commitment to resolving any potential misunderstandings.
According to the police, training programs conducted in partnership with the U.S. have actually increased this year, underscoring that the United States remains Kosovo’s „main strategic and key partner.“
Kosovo Police Denies Training Disruptions, Cites Ongoing U.S. Support
When approached by KoSSev to comment on the police’s statement and the alleged cancellation of training programs, the U.S. Embassy reiterated its ongoing review of the matter, referring again to its August 30 statement.
„We are continuing to review the issue, and we have taken no decisions at this time,“ the embassy stated.
The August 30 statement coincided with Kosovo’s government taking further steps to occupy several administrative buildings previously used by Serbian institutions in the north. The U.S. Embassy expressed concern at the time, warning that these actions could negatively affect the Kosovo Serb community. It also marked the first time the embassy mentioned the „continued government instrumentalization of the Kosovo Police for carrying out uncoordinated actions.“
U.S. Ambassador Jeffrey Hovenier’s comments at a peace summit in Prishtina on the same day as RTV Dukagjini‘s report further fueled speculation about the alleged cancellation of training programs.
Citing his grandfather’s proverb, Hovenier remarked, „If you want to join the club, don’t pee on the clubhouse door,“ alluding to Kosovo’s aspirations for Euro-Atlantic integration.
He emphasized that there is no alternative to dialogue for Kosovo’s path toward NATO and EU membership, dispelling the belief that Kosovo can bypass these requirements with the support of international allies.
Kosovo’s opposition leaders interpreted Hovenier’s remarks as a sign of U.S. frustration with Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s government, calling it a „diplomatic slap.“
They criticized the government for damaging relations with Kosovo’s key ally and reiterated their support for the U.S. position.
U.S. Ambassador Warns Kosovo on Euro-Atlantic Aspirations: ‘Don’t Pee on the Clubhouse Door’
Preuzimanje i objavljivanje tekstova sa portala KoSSev nije dozvoljeno bez navođenja izvora. Hvala na poštovanju etike novinarske profesije.
