Pristina:The head of the UN Interim Administration Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), Peter Due, has warned of increased tensions in Kosovo and the surrounding region over the past six months. This caution comes as the country's prolonged political deadlock shows signs of easing.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Peter Due presented the latest report from the Secretary-General to the Security Council, noting developments up to September 15 and providing updates on recent events. He highlighted the peaceful elections held on June 7 but noted the political uncertainty and heightened rhetoric that followed.

Peter Due emphasized the need for accountability, urging full cooperation from both Belgrade and Pristina authorities to address attacks in Banjska/Banjske in 2023 and on the Iber-Lepenc/Ibar-Lepenac water canal in 2024. He welcomed the election of Justina Shiroka-Pula as President of Kosovo, marking her as the third woman to hold this position.

Due acknowledged that while political disagreements are part of democratic life, prolonged institutional deadlock can have significant consequences. He expressed optimism that the formation of new institutions indicates a break in the deadlock and stressed the importance of genuine commitment from both sides in the EU-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina.

Kosovo Foreign Minister Glauk Konjufca assured the Council of Kosovo's stability as a democracy in southeastern Europe, noting significant improvements in democratic indicators. He rejected claims in reports that misinterpret enforcement actions as ethnically motivated or violations of rights.

Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Duric emphasized the continuing importance of UNMIK, stating that its staff play a crucial role in capturing the experiences of people in the region, which are often simplified in international reports.