UNMIK Media Observer, Morning Edition, November 5, 2025

Albanian Language Media:

Osmani meets Orav, receives European Commission’s 2025 Kosovo Report (media)
Orav: It is crucial for Kosovo to have cooperative govt and strong majority (media)
Kurti on EU Report: Progress in 35 areas, stagnation only in three (media)
President mandates Glauk Konjufca to form new government (media)
Kurti on coalition talks: I no longer see even theoretical possibility (media)
PDK: Kosovo is facing crisis, early elections the only solution (media)
Kurti on northern incident: Serbia’s attacks aim to “discipline” Kosovo Serbs (media)

Serbian Language Media:

Head of EU Delegation to Serbia presents EC report to Brnabic (N1, media)
Vucic: There is small possibility of opening Cluster 3 in December (Tanjug)
Vucic meets Sorensen, says CSM is key element of sustainable solution (media)
Djuric and Konrad discuss Belgrade-Pristina dialogue and regional issues (Kosovo Online)
Zecevic: Belgrade has shown great tolerance and restraint in relations with Pristina (RTS, Kosovo Online)
Macut meets with Chinese PM (media)
Gorazdevac: Youth, journalists and OSCE join forces to tidy up village (Radio kontakt plus)
Bajatovic: There is no and there will be no gas crisis in Serbia (media)
International organizations warn against Lex Specialis for General Staff complex (N1)

International Media:

Kurti rivals dismiss last-minute bid to form Kosovo Govt (Balkan Insight)
Kos: Significant progress of some EU candidates should motivate others (European Western Balkans)
EU enlargement report criticises Serbia, hails Montenegro’s progress (Balkan Insight)

Albanian Language Media

Osmani meets Orav, receives European Commission’s 2025 Kosovo Report (media)

Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani met on Tuesday with the Head of the European Union Office in Kosovo, Ambassador Aivo Orav, who presented her with the European Commission’s 2025 Report on Kosovo. According to a statement from the Presidency, the meeting focused on the report’s findings, which positively assess Kosovo’s progress in several areas while also identifying remaining challenges that need to be addressed. “President Osmani emphasized that these findings must be treated as a priority so that Kosovo continues to move forward decisively and remain at the forefront of reforms on its path toward EU membership,” the statement reads.

Osmani thanked Ambassador Orav for the EU’s continued support and reaffirmed the commitment of the people of Kosovo to European integration, stressing that the process is essential for sustainable development and regional peace.

See the Kosovo Report 2025 here: https://tinyurl.com/3ceuzve3

Orav: It is crucial for Kosovo to have cooperative govt and strong majority (media)

The Head of the European Union Office in Kosovo, Aivo Orav, speaking alongside caretaker Prime Minister Albin Kurti at a press conference on the 2025 Country Report prepared by the European Commission, said that the EU remains committed to supporting the membership aspirations of candidate countries. Orav emphasized that this is a decisive moment for both Kosovo and the EU. He described EU enlargement as a strategic imperative, an investment in stability, prosperity, and security. “As we implement this vision, the EU’s political commitment and the reforms connected to it are key. In many countries, we have seen remarkable progress,” Orav said.

He added that it is equally important for the European Union to prepare for a larger and stronger Union. The European Commission, he noted, will soon present its findings on how future enlargements will affect key policy areas.

Referring to Kosovo’s government formation process, Orav underlined that Kosovo needs a cooperative government, supported by a strong parliamentary majority, capable of advancing fundamental freedoms and improving the well-being of its people. “Kosovo needs a government that works together, one based on a strong majority in the Assembly, able to advance fundamental freedoms for the benefit of its people,” he said.

Ambassador Orav also highlighted that Kosovo has made progress in six key areas: Functioning of the judiciary, social development, transport policy, food safety, foreign relations, and institutional capacity building.

Kurti on EU Report: Progress in 35 areas, stagnation only in three (media)

Kosovo’s caretaker Prime Minister Albin Kurti has received the 2025 Progress Report from the European Commission. According to him, despite leading a caretaker government, the report confirms that Kosovo has successfully fulfilled its obligations. Thanking the European Union and the EU Office in Kosovo for their cooperation toward the shared European agenda, Kurti emphasized that EU integration remains both a strategic and value-based priority for Kosovo. “This year’s report is positive in almost all areas and provides clear recommendations where there are delays. It reflects the work of the government and our shared social progress. This year, as throughout the entire mandate, there has been no regression in any field. There is progress in 35 areas and stagnation in only three. The progress ranges from limited to advanced. Our direction is clear: full EU membership. The report confirms our commitment and the broad public support for the integration process,” Kurti said.

He also noted that the report commends Kosovo’s alignment with the EU’s common foreign and security policy, including sanctions against Russia and Belarus, as well as the condemnation of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine.

President mandates Glauk Konjufca to form new government (media)

Kosovo President, Vjosa Osmani, has announced that she has given the mandate to form the new government to Glauk Konjufca, the candidate proposed by the Vetevendosje Movement. “The Constitution does not say may appoint, but rather appoints another candidate in case the first one fails. The language used in the Constitution is mandatory, it obliges the President of the country to appoint the second nominee,” Osmani stated during a press conference.

“I have mandated Glauk Konjufca, another candidate for Prime Minister, as clearly required and defined by Article 95, paragraph 4 of the Constitution, as well as by the Constitutional Court’s own practice,” she emphasized.

Kurti on coalition talks: I no longer see even theoretical possibility (media)

Kosovo’s caretaker Prime Minister Albin Kurti has stated at a press conference on Tuesday that he no longer sees even a theoretical possibility of cooperation with other political parties, citing a “toxic atmosphere” and what he described as “hybrid hatred” directed against him by parts of the opposition. “Now I’m no longer the candidate. Let them prove that the state interest is above party interest,” Kurti said.

Addressing the issue of forming a new government, Kurti rejected claims by AAK leader Ramush Haradinaj that 61 signatures from MPs are required for the second attempt to form a government. “There is no obligation to present 61 signatures to the President. The second attempt, besides being legitimate, is also an obligation, to avoid new elections,” Kurti said.

He explained that the nomination of Glauk Konjufca as prime minister aims to prevent an institutional vacuum and allow for the approval of the new state budget. “Since the opposition says it will not vote on the budget with a caretaker government, then let’s have a government that is no longer caretaker but approved by the Assembly, so we can pass the budget,” he said.

Kurti further argued that the Constitution does not require prior signatures, noting that the 15-day deadline for the second mandate proves this point. “If 61 signatures were a prerequisite, there would be no need for the 15-day deadline. With 61 votes, the government could be formed immediately. The exact number of votes is known only in the plenary session,” he said.

PDK: Kosovo is facing crisis, early elections the only solution (media)

The Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) has stated that Kosovo is facing a crucial political and institutional moment that requires clear, responsible decisions aligned with the current parliamentary reality in the Assembly of Kosovo.

Following the nomination of Glauk Konjufca as the second candidate from the Vetevendosje Movement to form a new government, PDK said in a press release that it is evident a majority of Albanian MPs, together with some non-Serb minority representatives, have already made clear they will not vote for another Vetevendosje nominee. Therefore, any new attempt to grant the mandate to the same party would be a waste of time and would deepen public distrust in institutions. “Just as Albin Kurti failed to secure a majority, any further attempt by Vetevendosje to artificially prolong this process will also fail. The political reality is clear: no one has the majority to form a government in this legislature,” the party’s statement reads.

PDK warned that ignoring this reality would only deepen the crisis, prolong institutional uncertainty, and further harm Kosovo’s’s stability. “In the name of responsibility and citizens’ trust, the Democratic Party of Kosovo calls for an end to all delaying tactics, political improvisations, and attempts to hold the state hostage for narrow party interests,” the statement continues.

According to PDK, early parliamentary elections are now the only fair and democratic solution, a way to return the right of decision-making to the people and restore legitimacy to Kosovo’s institutions. The party also accused Vetevendosje of causing a prolonged crisis throughout the year that has harmed Kosovo’s economy, citizens’ well-being, and relations with international partners. It warned that failure to pass the state budget on time could leave public sector workers without salaries next year, making early elections even more urgent.

PDK reaffirmed its commitment to contributing to any process that supports stability, institutional functionality, and the strengthening of parliamentary democracy in Kosovo.

Kurti on northern incident: Serbia’s attacks aim to “discipline” Kosovo Serbs (media)

Kosovo’s caretaker Prime Minister Albin Kurti said that, based on available information, the Serb citizen from Leposavic who, according to authorities, was shot and abducted by the Serbian Gendarmerie, was targeted because he opposes the policies and regime of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic.

The Kosovo Police reported on November 3 that M.V., a Kosovo citizen, was allegedly shot and kidnapped on November 1 within Kosovo’s territory near the border with Serbia, and later transported to a hospital in Nis, Serbia.

Kurti stated that the incident occurred inside Kosovo’s territory, emphasizing that Serbia’s actions are part of a broader campaign. “It is clear that our northern neighbor continues its attacks aimed at disciplining the Serbs and destabilizing Kosovo. But I am convinced that, with our security and intelligence institutions, and in cooperation with our international partners, Serbia will fail on both fronts,” Kurti said during a press conference on Tuesday.

He called for international support for Kosovo and for accountability for those who ordered and carried out such “criminal and destabilizing acts.” He also confirmed that since the incident occurred, Kosovo Police, in coordination with NATO’s KFOR mission, have been present at the scene conducting investigations.

Serbian Language Media

Head of EU Delegation to Serbia presents EC report to Brnabic (N1, media)

Head of the European Union (EU) Delegation to Serbia Andreas von Beckerath on Tuesday presented the European Commission’s (EC) report on Serbia’s EU accession progress to Serbian Parliament Speaker Ana Brnabic, N1 reported.

Speaking in the Serbian Parliament, Von Beckerath emphasized that Serbia must be clear about its strategic direction and commitment. He added that the country’s dedication to the European path needs to be confirmed in both words and deeds, asserting it must be visible through decisive actions, consistent reforms, and a public narrative that will strengthen Serbia’s future in the EU.

He also expressed hope that progress concerning the Regulatory Authority for Electronic Media (REM) Council and the unified voter registry would mark the beginning of greater trust among stakeholders, which would benefit reform movements.

Read more at: https://shorturl.at/Giwz1

Vucic: There is small possibility of opening Cluster 3 in December (Tanjug)

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said on Tuesday in Brussels, where he attended a summit on EU enlargement, that there was a small possibility of opening Cluster 3 in Serbia's EU talks in December, adding Serbia would do everything in its power to try to open the cluster before the end of the year, Tanjug news agency reported.

Speaking to reporters, Vucic said this depended on the EU member states and that he was trying to speak with officials of some Scandinavian and Baltic countries. He said his meeting with European Council President Antonio Costa had addressed all important issues and that the discussion had been good.

"I would like to thank Antonio Costa for a sincere and fair attitude towards our country. In a few minutes, I will have a meeting with (EU Special Envoy for Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue Peter) Sorensen here at the Mission. After that, we will have dinner with (EU Enlargement Commissioner) Marta Kos", Vucic said last night.

Vucic meets Sorensen, says CSM is key element of sustainable solution (media)

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic met last evening in Brussels with the EU Special Representative for the Belgrade–Pristina Dialogue Peter Sorensen to discuss concrete steps toward the full and consistent implementation of already reached agreements, de-escalation on the ground, and the protection of the rights and security of the Serbian people.

“In an open conversation, I confirmed our commitment to the dialogue under the auspices of the EU as the only framework that can ensure peace, stability, and predictability for all those living in Kosovo and Metohija. We focused our attention on concrete steps — full and consistent implementation of the agreements already reached, de-escalation on the ground, and the protection of the rights and security of the Serbian people. I particularly emphasized the importance of establishing the Community of Serbian Municipalities (CSM), in accordance with the agreements, as a key element of a sustainable solution”, Vucic wrote on a post on Instagram.

Vucic stressed Serbia remains a reliable and constructive partner, ready for a responsible compromise, while fully respecting its commitments and the principles of international law. “I am grateful to the representatives of the EU for their engagement, and we will continue our contacts in order to preserve peace and ensure a normal life for all our citizens”, he added.

Djuric and Konrad discuss Belgrade-Pristina dialogue and regional issues (Kosovo Online)

Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djuric met with the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Serbia Anke Konrad and discussed the key aspects of bilateral cooperation, regional matters, and broader geopolitical topics. On this occasion, both sides noted that progress in the dialogue on the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina - which is currently at a standstill - is of great importance for the stability of the region, Kosovo Online portal reported.

Both sides underlined the positive impact of the projects already implemented, as well as those planned within the framework of the Berlin Process. Minister Djuric reaffirmed Serbia’s readiness to make an even greater contribution in the future to achieving the goals of this initiative, launched by the Government of Germany in 2014, which aims to enhance cooperation among the Western Balkan six and bring the region closer to the European Union.

Referring to the situation in Kosovo, Minister Djuric stressed the necessity of an orderly transition of power in all municipalities following the recent local elections. Both sides agreed that achieving progress in the dialogue on the normalization of relations between Belgrade and Pristina - which remains stalled due to the months-long impasse in forming a new Kosovo Government - is essential for regional stability.

Minister Djuric also informed Ambassador Konrad about Serbia’s efforts to ensure energy stability and diversification of energy supply, emphasizing that these are matters of crucial importance not only for Serbia, but for the wider region as well.

Zecevic: Belgrade has shown great tolerance and restraint in relations with Pristina (RTS, Kosovo Online)

Institute for European Studies Director Slobodan Zecevic said dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina will be one of the key focuses in the European Commission’s report and related messages from Brussels. He emphasized the importance of stability in the Balkans, noting Belgrade’s role in maintaining restraint in relations with Pristina, as well as the challenges related to the formation of the Community of Serbian Municipalities.

“Stability in the Balkans and avoidance of conflict remain priorities. Belgrade has shown great tolerance and restraint in relations with Pristina, even though the Serbian people in Kosovo and Metohija have often been exposed to attacks”, Zecevic told RTS. He pointed out that messages coming from Brussels toward Belgrade in recent times have been less critical than before, which he sees as a result of Belgrade’s patience in trying to resolve ongoing issues.

“The establishment of the Community of Serbian Municipalities in line with the Brussels Agreement would partially resolve the problem and improve the position of Serbs, especially in northern Kosovo. However, the Albanians have so far sabotaged this entire process. The European Union does not look favourably on their actions. (Albin) Kurti is not in a particularly strong position in his relations with the West at this moment. Local elections have been held, and it remains to be seen whether the Community of Serbian Municipalities will finally be formed”, he opined.

Macut meets with Chinese PM (media)

Serbian Prime Minister Djuro Macut met on Tuesday in Shanghai with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang, noting that Serbia-China relations were based on friendship and trust, Tanjug news agency reported.

Macut and Li discussed bilateral cooperation and the China International Import Expo, to also feature Serbia. Macut said it was an honour and a pleasure for him to be visiting Shanghai for the first time and noted that, for decades, the two countries maintained friendly relations based on mutual trust.

Gorazdevac: Youth, journalists and OSCE join forces to tidy up village (Radio kontakt plus)

A joint, clean up campaign was organized yesterday in the village of Gorazdevac, in Pec municipality, supported by OSCE and Radio Gorazdevac, Radio kontakt plus reported.

Representatives of the OSCE, Radio Gorazdevac journalists and secondary school students from the village took part in the cleaning campaign. They cleaned one of the streets and centre of the village, and planted trees at the end of action, some in front of the House of Culture and some near the River Jaz that used to run through the village, but dried up due to excavations of Pec Bistrica River bed.

The action concluded with foods and drinks as well as socializing in the spirit of community and care for a cleaner and nicer environment, Radio kontakt plus concluded.

Bajatovic: There is no and there will be no gas crisis in Serbia (media)

Srbijagas Director General and Socialist Party of Serbia (SPS) MP Dusan Bajatovic said on Tuesday there was no and there will be no gas crisis in Serbia, adding there will be sufficient quantities of natural gas in Serbia, Tanjug news agency reported.

"There will be no Serbia that is without gas. We know that already, and we also know how. I cannot speak about this publicly. There will be no electricity shortages either. There will be no (fuel) canisters", Bajatovic said in the Serbian Parliament during a debate on amendments to the law on the unified electoral roll.

He said work was underway to solve the issue of Serbia's Russian majority-owned oil company NIS, now under US sanctions.

International organizations warn against Lex Specialis for General Staff complex (N1)

Four international organizations expressed concern over the plans by the Serbian authorities to introduce a special law to allow the demolition of the Modernist Generalstab Complex in central Belgrade, N1 reported.

A Joint Statement by EUROPA NOSTRA, ICOMOS, DOCOMOMO International and The Architects’ Council of Europe called official Belgrade to withdraw the proposed Lex Specialis which is being debated by the Serbian Parliament.

“The leading European and international heritage organisations, EUROPA NOSTRA, International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS), DOCOMOMO International, and The Architects’ Council of Europe (ACE) express their deep concern and firm opposition to the proposed “Lex Specialis” Law related to the Generalštab Modernist Complex in Belgrade”, the statement said. It warned that the law would allow the demolition of the Generalstab Modernist Complex, a masterpiece of the renowned architect Nikola Dobrovic which is protected by law as a cultural monument of national importance.

International Media

Kurti rivals dismiss last-minute bid to form Kosovo Govt (Balkan Insight)

Acting PM's latest plan – to form a Vetevendosje government without him as premier – has drawn a cool response from his rivals, who have repeated their calls for early elections.

In a last-minute attempt by the winning party in the February elections to maintain power and prevent snap elections, Vetevendosje leader and acting Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti nominated former speaker Glauk Konjufca to form a government.

The move came one day before the deadline expired for President Vjosa Osmani to give the government-formation mandate to someone other than Kurti, or set snap parliamentary elections.