Verdict on UÇK leaders: US Embassy warns of major protests in Kosovo

The United States Embassy in Prishtina has issued a security notice warning citizens of large protests expected on Wednesday, September 16, in downtown Prishtina and other major cities across Kosovo.

According to the US Embassy’s notice, several organizations have planned major demonstrations that could bring large crowds, road closures and serious disruptions to road traffic.

The Embassy advises citizens to limit movement to areas near their residences and avoid traveling to areas where the demonstrations are expected.

Citizens were also warned that passing through affected areas could lead to major delays and difficulties reaching their destination.

“These protests could cause large crowds of people, road closures and severe traffic disruptions. It is advised to limit travel to your immediate residential area and avoid traveling to work and schools if your route passes through the affected areas, as you may not be able to complete the journey in time,” the notice states.

US Government personnel in Kosovo have been instructed to avoid all unnecessary travel near the protests. Due to the possibility of major disruptions, American staff have also been advised not to send their children to school on September 16.

The US Embassy said it will be open on Wednesday, while consular services will be offered on a limited and as-needed basis.

The Embassy’s warning comes on a particularly sensitive day for Kosovo. On September 16, the verdict is expected in The Hague in the judicial process against the former leaders of the Kosovo Liberation Army (UÇK).

In that trial, the proceedings are being conducted against Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi, who are accused of war crimes.

Expectation of the verdict in this case has heightened public attention and interest in Kosovo. However, in its notice, the US Embassy does not specifically mention the Special Court’s verdict as the cause of the protests. /Telegrafi/

Source: Telegrafi