Marko Djuric expressed concerns about the deteriorating situation in Kosovo and Metohija over the last two and a half years in a detailed statement today. He posed a critical question: “Should we remain passive while innocent civilians suffer, or should we take decisive action?” This comes 20 years after the pogrom that saw 28 innocent people murdered and nearly 1,000 injured, marking a second wave of ethnic cleansing of Serbs.
Djuric highlighted that this year alone, six Serbs have been shot, yet no one has been held accountable. He criticized the Kurti-aligned police administration in Kosovo for imposing mayors without the support of the Serbian community, yet these officials still hold power.
“Just two days ago, in a statement that overlooks the ongoing dialogue and legal processes, Kurti stated he does not plan to implement the agreement on the Community of Serb Municipalities. This isn’t just shirking responsibilities; it’s a direct insult to this council and the authority of the International Community,” Djuric explained. His statements underscored Pristina’s dubious intentions to build a shared future.
Djuric also pointed out the unlawful denial of rights to the Serbian List, underscoring a disrespect for rights in Kosovo and Metohija, and the urgent need for mechanisms against such conduct. He questioned the fairness of upcoming elections, asking, “Why should Serbs vote if their basic rights are disregarded?” He also mentioned that Patriarch Porfirije has been barred from visiting Pec.
“The level of violence against Serbs has reached alarming levels,” Djuric emphasized, noting that this year, six Serbs were shot, and there has still been no accountability.
He highlighted that attacks on Serbs have increased by 50% since Kurti came to power. “Last year, an 11-year-old boy was shot by so-called Kosovo security forces during a Christmas parade, and the attacker remains free. What kind of message does that send?” Djuric asked.
He pointed out that thousands of families are still too afraid to return home.
Djuric called on the UN for immediate action and concrete measures. He sent a message to the Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija: “You are not alone. Serbia stands with you in your fight for justice. We will not give up… Your courage in facing these challenges is a testament to your strength. We will not allow your voices to be unheard. People must understand that your struggle is not just for territory, but for living with justice. There can be no normalization until more than 80 Serbian political prisoners are returned home,” he stated in a message to the Serbian people in Kosovo and Metohija.
Djuric also showed a picture of Svecla standing in front of a burned EULEX vehicle, questioning whether he should be considered a figure of order, while the arrested Serbs are labeled terrorists.
“We urge you to reject the politics of division and join us in seeking mutual security and cooperation. Kurti reflects the regime he once fought against and, unfortunately, has surpassed it. He has become an oppressor and divider,” said Djuric.
He argued for the rejection of policies that deepen divides and demanded that the so-called Kosovo government respect all its citizens and commitments. “Sanctions must be imposed. There need to be consequences for actions, sanctions should be applied to Kurti’s government showing zero tolerance for further conflict provocation. We call on the Security Council to enforce existing agreements, particularly the Brussels Agreement. Imagine the future we could create together if we apply international law. It’s time Kurti was held accountable. Will this Council uphold the values it stands for? Serbia is determined to continue fighting for peace and I call on this council to protect fundamental freedoms and preserve them,” Djuric concluded.
