Key moments of the trial of the former KLA leaders in The Hague

More than five years after their arrest, Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi are awaiting in The Hague today the decision of the trial panel of the Kosovo Specialist Chambers.

The arrest of the former KLA leaders took place in November 2020, while the trial began in April 2023.

On this important day, we recall some of the key moments that marked the course of the proceedings against the four former KLA leaders — from the arrest until today, when the judgment is expected.

Arrests in November 2020

Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi were transferred to detention in The Hague in November 2020. They pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Indictment includes war crimes and crimes against humanity

The prosecution claims that during the 1998–1999 war period, killings, persecution, imprisonment/detention, torture and other acts were committed against various persons. The accused have denied the charges.

Trial began on April 3, 2023

From the start of the trial to the close of the evidence proceedings, more than two and a half years have passed. The prosecution closed its case on April 15, 2025.

Six counts of crimes against humanity

Persecution, imprisonment, other inhumane acts, torture, unlawful killing, enforced disappearance of persons.

Four counts of war crimes

Unlawful or arbitrary arrest and detention, cruel treatment, torture, unlawful killing.

Victims have a special status in the proceedings

Hundreds of persons have sought to participate as victims. The number of participating victims has changed during the proceedings and, according to the court’s latest data, stands at 156.

The four former KLA leaders have pleaded not guilty

In separate hearings, the four former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army — Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Jakup Krasniqi and Rexhep Selimi — pleaded not guilty.

Closing statements were held in February 2026

After the evidence closed on December 18, 2025, the parties submitted final briefs and the closing statements took place February 9–18, 2026.

Today, September 16, 2026, is judgment day

The trial panel scheduled the pronouncement of the judgment for September 16, 2026, at 10:00.

The hearing will start at 10:00 and, according to the official notice, is expected to last until 12:00. Source: Telegrafi