Diplomatic Tiff as Serbia Responds to Kenya Recognizing Kosovo

The government of Serbia has responded following Kenya’s decision to recognize Kosovo as an independent state.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia, Belgrade condemned Kenya for the decision, calling it a violation of international law and a breach of United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244.

Further, the Ministry criticized Kenya for disregarding the UN Charter and undermining efforts toward regional stability and dialogue.

Describing the move as “regrettable,” Belgrade 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.

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Serbia responds

Belgrade, at the same time, pointed out that 28 countries have withdrawn or suspended their recognition of Kosovo’s independence in recent years, emphasizing that the majority of the international community remains supportive of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.

The Serbian government has vowed to intensify diplomatic efforts to counter Kosovo’s recognition and defend its sovereignty through all available legal channels despite Kenya’s decision.

“We also highlight that over the past eight years, twenty-eight countries have withdrawn or suspended their recognition of the unilaterally declared independence of so-called Kosovo, while only two new states have granted recognition,” the Ministry said.

“The clear majority of the international community, along with law and justice, remain on Serbia’s side.”

The Republic of Serbia has warned that it will take all necessary diplomatic and political measures “in response to this unacceptable and unfriendly act.” 

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Kenya recognizes Kosovo

This comes after President William Ruto on Wednesday, March 26, signed a letter recognizing Kosovo as an independent nation during a closed-door meeting at State House, Nairobi.

The signing of the recognition letter meant that Kenya officially recognized the breakaway Balkan state as an independent state, becoming 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 of President Ruto signing the letter, described it 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!”

The former president added that he had been lobbying for Kenya’s recognition of Kosovo since 2009.

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