PRISHTINA, Dec 31 /ATA/ – The European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) welcomed the de-escalation of tensions in northern Kosovo and the restoration of freedom of movement for everyone living and working in the four northern municipalities following the removal of the illegal barricades.
From the day barricades were set up until the day they were removed, EULEX supported Kosovo’s rule-of-law institutions in maintaining the stability of Kosovo and the security of all its communities in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and with KFOR.
“Since the beginning of November, EULEX responded to formal requests of the Kosovo Police by: significantly increasing its 24/7 reconnaissance patrols and by introducing foot patrols by members of its Formed Police Unit and Reserve Formed Police Unit in northern Kosovo to closely monitor the security situation on the ground; delivering essential supplies to the Kosovo Police officers at the Rudnica/Jarinjë Common Crossing Point on 17 December; accompanying regular Kosovo Police officers rotating and replacing regular police officers at the police station in Leposaviq on 24 December,” EULEX said in a press release.
However, EULEX noted that the security and rule-of-law vacuum created after the resignations of Kosovo Serb police officers, prosecutors, judges and support staff is persisting.
“ EULEX can only partially fill this vacuum through is increased presence on the ground, but the Mission cannot replace the Kosovo Police or any other rule-of-law authorities. A return to the relevant Dialogue agreements regulating the integration of the Kosovo Police and judiciary is therefore essential,” the release said, adding that “within the confines of its mandate, the Mission will continue working with determination to support the stability of Kosovo, as well as the security of all its communities.”
/KosovaPress/u.sh/
