U.S. Embassy Pristina statement on the violent reaction in Kosovo to the removal of an Albanian monument in Presevo Valley, January 21, 2013

January 21, 2013

The U.S. Embassy in Pristina notes the significance of the removal of an Albanian monument in Presevo Valley over the weekend and regrets that this act has prompted a violent reaction here in Kosovo.  The United States is disheartened by this use of violence and condemns the reprisals against Kosovo Serb monuments, churches and communities that happened overnight.  Not only do these attacks undermine spirit of multiculturalism in Kosovo, but they also target Kosovo communities for a decision taken in Belgrade.

The United States calls on the people of Kosovo to respect our shared values of peace and to demonstrate restraint.   We urge that any protests only be conducted peacefully and fully support the Government of Kosovo in its calls for calm.