USA: Arrest of attack suspect is being used as justification for barricades – remove them immediately

The United States expresses its deep concern about the current situation in the north of Kosovo. We understand that Kosovan authorities have detained an individual suspected of involvement in a violent attack on Kosovan law enforcement and electoral commission authorities. This arrest is being used as a justification for illegal roadblocks as well as threats and intimidation against the Kosovan authorities and the local population.

Those who erected illegal roadblocks should dismantle them immediately. We expect an end to all threats of violence and intimidation. We express our appreciation and full support to NATO’s Kosovo Force (KFOR) for its efforts to ensure security and freedom of movement and to the European Union Rule of Law Mission (EULEX). We firmly condemn as unacceptable all attacks on Kosovan and International security agencies.

We call on everyone to exercise maximum restraint, to take immediate action to achieve a de-escalation of the situation, and to refrain from provocative acts. We urge the parties to work within the EU-facilitated Dialogue to resolve issues of concern.