The European Union (EU) has responded after President William Ruto recognized Kosovo as an independent state.
Ruto recognized Kosovo as an independent state on March 26, making Kenya the first country to do so after nearly five years of stalled efforts to gain further international recognition.
Former Kosovo President Behgjet Pacolli, in a statement while sharing photos on his Facebook page of President Ruto signing the recognition letter, described the moment as a “remarkable ceremony.”
“17 years after Independence, in a remarkable and unforgettable ceremony, the Republic of Kenya – one of the most important countries in Africa – officially recognized the Republic of Kosovo as an independent and sovereign state!” Pacolli said.
“This recognition is not just a declaration – it is a great victory for the state of Kosovo, it is the voice of our freedom that is heard deep in the heart of Africa! Today, our state flag flies high proudly in Nairobi, and this is proof that Kosovo moves forward, strong and with dignity when it is worked and willed to!”
European Union Says It’s Neutral After Ruto Recognized Kosovo as Sovereign Nation
However, a European Union spokesperson told the Telegraph that “the EU is neutral.”
“We took note of Kenya’s recognition of Kosovo’s independence. The EU is neutral on status,” the EU’s response states.
At the same time, the EU reaffirmed that Kosovo has a clear European perspective, highlighting its application for membership in the European Union.
“Kosovo has a clear European perspective and has submitted an application for EU membership in December 2022,” the EU told the Telegraph.
“The Commission remains available to prepare an Opinion on Kosovo’s application for membership as soon as the Council requests it.”
Serbia’s Response to Kenya
This comes after the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia issued a statement condemning Kenya’s decision, calling it a violation of international law and a breach of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244.
The Ministry further criticized Kenya for disregarding the UN Charter and undermining efforts toward regional stability and dialogue.
Also Read: Diplomatic Tiff as Serbia Responds to Kenya Recognizing Kosovo
Describing the move as “regrettable,” Serbia warned that the decision could harm its traditionally strong relations with Nairobi, which have been built over decades.
“This move sets a regrettable precedent in the traditionally friendly relations between Serbia and Kenya—relations that have been built over decades on the principles of mutual respect and cooperation, including within the Non-Aligned Movement,” read part of the statement.
Serbia also dismissed any justification based on the 2010 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice (ICJ), arguing that it does not legitimize Kosovo’s unilateral declaration of independence.
Belgrade, at the same time, pointed out that 28 countries have withdrawn or suspended their recognition of Kosovo’s independence in recent years, emphasizing that the majority of the international community remains supportive of Serbia’s territorial claims.
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