The European Union has started to gradually lift sanctions imposed on Kosovo in June 2023. This decision, announced by EU's top diplomat Kaja Kallas on Thursday, is conditional. The condition is on a sustained de-escalation of violence and hostilities in the north of Kosovo.
The EU had placed economic curbs on Kosovo due to tensions in the Serb-dominated north. Prime Minister Albin Kurti has been seeking to extend government control in the region. The bloc had cut at least 150 million euros in funding.
Kallas urged Kosovo's political parties to end disputes blocking the formation of a new government. Functioning institutions are needed to secure EU membership. Both Kosovo and Serbia aim to join the EU, but must normalize ties.