By Enyichukwu Enemanna
Serbia says it “strongly” denounces the decision by Kenyan authorities to accord recognition to the independence of Kosovo as “sovereign nation”.
This action constitutes a blatant violation of international law and directly breaches United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244, the Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a statement.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia strongly condemns the decision of the Republic of Kenya to recognise the unilaterally declared independence of the so-called ‘Kosovo’,” the statement read.
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 but is not a United Nations member due to opposition from Serbia and its allies, including UN Security Council veto holders Russia and China.
Over 110 countries, including the United States and most European nations, have recognised Kosovo’s independence.
Kenya officially recognised Kosovo as an independent state on Wednesday, becoming the first country to do so in nearly five years, after stalled efforts for further international recognition.
The decision was confirmed by Albanian President Bajram Begaj following a meeting between Kosovo’s Special Envoy Behgjet Pacolli and Kenyan President William Ruto in Nairobi.
“Pleased that Kenya has recognised the state of Kosovo today. I extend my gratitude to my friend, President William Ruto, for this decision, warmly welcomed by all Albanians,” Begaj wrote on X.
Serbia criticised the timing of Kenya’s decision, highlighting that it coincides with the 80th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Charter, which Serbian officials claim has been disregarded by Kenyan authorities.
“This decision also undermines efforts to foster constructive dialogue, regional stability, and respect for the international legal order,” the ministry added.
Serbia further argued that any reference to the 2010 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice as justification for this recognition is unfounded.
The Serbian government also expressed regret, stating that Kenya’s move could damage the traditionally friendly relations between both nations.
Belgrade warned that it would take all necessary diplomatic and political measures in response to what it called an unacceptable and unfriendly act.
Serbia also emphasised that, over the past eight years, 28 countries have withdrawn or suspended their recognition of Kosovo’s unilaterally declared independence, while only two new states have granted recognition.
Serbia insisted that the majority of the international community, alongside law and justice, remains on its side.
“The Republic of Serbia remains firmly committed to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity through all available diplomatic and legal means,” the statement concluded.
