Son of Gunnar I'm not sure if you are supporting the Serb radical party or if you are supporting the independence of Kosovo but your estimates are wrong.
The only one you have right is support for SRS, but I won't bother correcting you as you've got them all wrong.
I would only add that in a situation where the political system in a country is increasingly polarised it stands to reason that more extreme parties will win and parties between will suffer.
to lowe: clue well taken.
Here is another one. Remember 1998 and 1999?
Or 1990-1999?
You did not live in kosovo, so you probably dont know. And if someone other then serbian tells you, you just dont believe it.
Take a hard look at the facts about Kosovo, stand in front of the mirror and be realistic.
When I read how the Democratic Party and the G17 Plus want to change Kosovo for the European Union lollypops, I wonder: Where has the Serbian dignity gone?
Serbs use to be a very worthy people, uncapable of losing its dignity for a bag of lollypops. What a shame!
It is interesting to see how much the decisions of the Albanians of Kosovo are influencing the politics of Serbia now that they are gone, and how little they influenced it when they were in Serbia.
Elect whoever you want, Kosovo is not going to come back.
Kostunica said there would be instability and is trying to keep faith to his promise I guess.
The only good thing related to Kosovo that you could work on right now is the return of the Serb refugees there (I still think it is possible). You need to gain the trust of the Albanians for that and the only ones that have some leverage on the Albanians now, especially now are the EU and the US.
"As for some arguments here that Serbia needs to protect Serbs in RS and Kosovo, protect from WHO?
(lazer, nyc, usa, 8 March 2008 20:10) "
lazer, nyc,usa
From WHO? Let me give you a clue -- remember March 2004? And why Nato/Kfor are today still nervously patrolling the Ibar? And not removing the barbed wires surrounding the Serb enclaves south of the Ibar?
May election results (
my humble prognosis) :
SRS - 35% / 40%
DS - 20% - 25%
DSS - 10% - 15%
NS - 5% -10%
SPS - 5%
G17 - out
Group around Mr. Jovanovic- out
New government (SRS-NS-DSS).
EU will call the election and the results non-democratic.
Serbia's NATO / EU option will move to the back burner...
Over the next 5 years, Serbia's foreign policy aligns more with that of Russia and China.
This is the end of Kostunica. He will remembered as the man that rose to power from Kosova events and fell from the same thing. Serbs are rational people. They know that the history of Kosova is closed for the rest of coming 1000 yrs, and it is the Serbs who will need Europa not Europa needs them. So in coming elections he will get booted. In march the number of countries that recognise Kosova is expected to reach 165.
“… there’s no reason not to learn from the experiences of others…”
There are very important differences, between Ireland and Serbia versus EU. You have issues only with English, other countries in EU are neutral. In our case, number of powerfull countries are deliberately hostile to us, (especially Germany have an axe to grind) and this is not going to stop any time soon. They didn’t go to all this trouble in last (almost) 20 years, doing everything they could to destroy us, to now all of the sudden make us prosperous and happy in EU.
Serbia has been given a bad rap by the international propaganda machines and been made into a "bad guy" by many...but I must ask three questions and make one comment...
Has anything really changed now that Kosovo is "independent?"
Was Serbia ever going to exercise real sovereignty over the area?
Have the Serbian Leaders ever made an attempt in the last 50 years to actually treat the Kosovo Albanians as bona-fide citizens of their country?
Take a real, honest look at history, get a book written by a Serbian, a Kosovo Albanian, and as close to an objective international historian as you can, then decide where you want your country to go...good luck and best wishes to all Serbs and Albanians
This is a warning of instability in the Balkans for some time to come. I only hope the Serbians/Greece/Romania/Russia show their teeth to the rest of Europe /U.S. and make them understand that whatever these Albanians do they will not succeed in taking Serbia's heritage/dignity away. Otherwise these Alabanian will continue on taking territories from Greece, Skopje, Bosnia, etc. and lead to a major war.
As I see,soon Kosova wont be a priority for Serbia anymore but EU integration.Good, serbian leaders have understood that is worthless fighting for something that has already gone and no chance to get it back so they are looking for a better future as they should had done long time ago.Soon those pro European politicians will accept Kosova's independence as well, thats a very good move.Now its time for K-serbs to accept Kosova's institutions and be a part of it, thats where your future lies.
What is going to happen to Action plan, Top Secret?
Is anyone going to support K-Serbs?
What is going to happen to Kosovo je Serbija thing?
--
More importantly Olf, what is Thaci going to do when he sees K-Serbs voting in Serbian elections at official Serbian voting centres in the province of Serbia?
Is he going to cry to NATO or the UN and tell them to stop it? This will be a good test to see whether they accept the de facto partition!
Apparently, most of the posters to this site neglect to read the world news on the Internet. Kostunica has pounded the last nail into the DS coffin with this move. In desperation, Jeremic has asked the Russians to open a Security Council debate on Kosovo this Tuesday to "show" the Serbs that the DS is still fighting for Kosovo. Nothing will come out of that debate and, in May, Tomislav Nikolic will be the new prime minister and Kostunica will be the new foreign minister. In order for the DS to stay in power, they will have to catch and turn over Mladic and Karadzic to the Hague and sign the SAA before the May election. I give better odds to the us catching osama before May.
smile is that a quip from your politicians quotebook?
Look at it this way. Economic policy will go to hell - prices will go up -inflation will be at least 15 percent by the end of the year. The stock market will plunge (it already did on Friday on rumours of the government collapse). Investors will withdraw. In the meantime we will have elections the radicals will win and will form a coalition with DSS. Oh yeah and all those old folks (SPS, SRS supporters) who queued up for free shares will get nothing. Kind of amusing really right?
Serbs in southern Kosovo will be ethnically cleansed (under SRS / DSS. The west will be firmer than ever on Kosovo and Serbia may lose northern Kosovo. I can even see a low intensity war fought between Serb proxies (certain groups) and NATO. If that happens Serbia will lose all of Kosovo.
If you think thats a good thing then more fool you.
But 'traitors' have no reason to be nervous. They want SRS in power as they will cash in from funding through the NGO sector, as will sections of the media. Money will probably pour into the coffers of LDP too.
Personally I'm ready to invest in the stock market as soon as I estimate it (we) hits rock bottom, not yet. Lets hope that not too many workers will lose their jobs as a result of radical / dss policies, but its out of my hands.
Still its worth all of this isnt it, just to punish right Tadic, and I'm sure it will show that Holbrooke as well :)
You cannot show defiance to the World's most powerful Empire. Don't you realise what the US government says goes? By the end of this decade you Serbs will be like the Native Americans. Like them, you are trying to show defiance to a mighty power and you will end up the same way. Go ahead and sign everything the US and EU puts in front of you but don't be surprised if they renege on their promises a few years later. Soon there will be no Serbian state - the US and EU will create an independent Vojvodina and Sandzak, Presevo Valley, etc. And you Serbs who attempted to show defiance will be living on a few reservations like those proud, defiant, but ultimately foolish Native Americans. Living on the handouts of the EU to maintain your meagre existence.
But, it doesn't have to end like that. There are enough countries out there Serbia can make alliances with and does not have to join the EU. Russia, China, Venezuela, India, South Africa, Spain - these are all countries Serbia can strengthen political, economic and military links.
If Cuba can defy the US for all this time so can Serbia. And why does the US despise Cuba? Merely for the fact that it stands up to the big bully that is the US. This is why the US government is outraged by Serbia'a defiance. You simply must do what you are told. It's time to stand up to the bully once and for all.
"with Kosovo move forward into EU and a bright future of the two peoples."
Typical childish dark/white comment from an ignorant in a country without any history of its own. In deed, Europe should stop buying their worthless bloodmoney and thereby help them becomming non-parasites.
(gf, 8 March 2008 15:56)
This ignorant, and that is me, knew that he was going to resign.
By the way, thanx for the insult. Coming from you is meaningless.
An old say: "people talk what they know!"
I wish luck to Mr. Tadic, and hope that a new generation of leaders will take over and make Serbia a TRUE DEMOCRACY.
One thing i am glad that Kostunica was not in charge of the Serbian Army!!!
As for some arguments here that Serbia needs to protect Serbs in RS and Kosovo, protect from WHO?
Unfortunately for DS that abandoned Zoran Djindjic's way, after a long time of being "neither meat nor fish", the party will loose the elections. I despise Radical Party but see that exactly them will win now. The West will not give money for DS pre-elections campaign nor any Serbian tycoon, and already during Zoran Djindjic the West showed not to care about progressive forces in Serbia except "friendly" wording: but now Russia will give money for the Radicals to win.
Kostunica is a big player in this game, I would not neglect his inteligency at all: he wants to remain in Serbian history Charles De Gaule. He knows that Kosovo is out of Serbia and never will again become its part: absurd would be to found a state with 2 milion unfreandly people: yet the price for it must someone pay: and it will be Europe.
What's the point of dissolving the government and calling for new elections? We all know the same people are going to be reelected to office, and Kostunica will be, again, the deal breaker between DS or SRS. As in the past, DS and SRS will be the two biggest winners but not enough to forge a majority government. Then Kostunica will come waltzing in, looking for which party can outbid the other in giving DSS control of government reigns.
The only danger now is the potential for a DSS-SRS coalition. If this is Kostunica's strategy, DS better start campaigning tomorrow.
“It (the SAA) cannot be ratified by all the EU countries individually and those who have recognized Kosovo's independence cannot accept an agreement that says Serbia is a whole state with Kosovo in its borders," Koštunica explained.
This statement is clearly misleading if not dishonest
When Ireland joined the EEC in 1973, in still maintained a constitutional claim over the six counties of Northern Ireland. Neither the other member states nor the UK attempted to prevent Ireland’s membership despite this fact, (nor, it could be argued, did Ireland attempt to thwart the UK joining despite its claim to NI as an integral part of the UK).
Northern Ireland’s ‘Final Status’ will continue to be disputed, but there is a general understanding that this will change only by mutual agreement and following democratic principles.
History may not contain ‘political blueprints’ for the future, but there’s no reason not to learn from the experiences of others.
I fully understand Kostunica and I agree with what he did here, for once.
He has had a clear position vis-a-vis the Albanians, he has shown utmost contempt towards a population that he claims as his own. His goal is continued Serbian domination over Albanians and it's too late for him to change.
He did the right thing, the only reasonable thing, he stepped down and now Serbs have a choice: continue with the old tricks or start on a new path.
This government never worked properly, so it is best that you start over. Kosovo is far more important then joining the EU. It should be clear to anyone willing to “have an ear” that Serbia will never join the EU with Kosovo if at all. Why? Because that is the way Germany and its allies want it. Two choices now, let Kosovo go and keep hoping for the EU to let you in, or keep your nation intact and independent trading with West & East but have closer political relations with countries that respect your right to exist. Kosovo is a precedent not only for the world but also for Serbia. If certain powers get away with this it will only wet their appetites for more, only central Serbia will be left (if you get lucky). Kosovo is about national survival, whether Serbs will live in their own country free and independent, or in other countries as a minority (every Serb knows how that always turns out). Nothing is more important right now then maintaining your territorial integrity and it should be CRYSTAL CLEAR by now that the DS, G17 only want integration with the organizations that have been and still are directly involved in the further disintegration of Serbia and other Serb areas like the RS. To the Serbs in RS, hold your referendum. If it is your desire to leave the state you are now somewhat a part of then do so quickly, you have a precedent, and backing, no one is in a position to stop this now but your window won’t be open for too long. I look forward to an independent Serb nation (including RS, Kosovo) and a new government that will work for the Serbian people and only them (unlike most so-called democratic nations).
This is not unexpected. The only thing I do not understand is why we have to wait until May. I think it is in Serbia's and all Serbs' interest to have election ASAP. All parties must make it very clear what they stand for. Serbia with or without Kosovo in the EU, EU or independent or closer relationships with Russia and others, Kosovo back or let go, NATO or no NATO. The only thing one can ask of the politicians is to put all egos aside and be united. A united Serbia can be strong and confident, a divided Serbia is weak, passive and is easy to take advantage of. Also be a government that is willing to defend all Serbs (in Serbia, Kosovo and Republika Srpska) and be a goverment that can tell the EU "NO" if necessary. Otherwise lets become a kingdom again or have a strong military government. We will get over all this and be stronger, but there is too much to be lost until we get there again.
As a friend of the K-Albanians I watch in a very relaxed way these latest self-serving maneuvers of Kostunica. The fact that Kosovo is now independent and recognized by most European countries and the USA is the main thing. Now nobody can tell the K-Albanians anymore that "please wait 2 more months until the Serbian elections are over to not help the radicals and Kostunica".
At this point I don't care what the Serbs do. It is up to them to decide between self-destructive nationalism and a bright European future.
If they opt for the Kostunica way that will greatly help Kosovo even further in its consolidation and support by rich democratic countries.
“…. I say that he no longer has the confidence of the Serbian people… “
I can’t speak for people as you do bganon, but he certainly does have my confidence. Considering circumstances, he did splendid job. Best proof of that is all the venom thrown over him by Albanian posters.
Serbia needs an election in which all sides speak the truth about their visions for Serbia’s future.
Let Tadic stand up and tell the Serbs that he is for the EU regardless of what the EU does to Serbia or demands of it.
Let Kostunica stand up and tell the Serbs that Kosovo is more important than the EU and that he will defend Serbia even if this is unpopular with politicians in Washington, Berlin, London and Brussels.
No guys
this means SRS and nationalist NO EU man are vining in May election.
The very direct consequence of the countries who pushed for this illegal, rogue independence, and of course to be held for.
I am listening to him now. Kostunica says he doesnt have confidence in his coalition partners. I say that he no longer has the confidence of the Serbian people.
He thinks (or rather says) that there is disunity over Kosovo when even the birds on the trees know that all of the government supports Kosovo in Serbia.
By the way (for your information) Kostunica's decision is not final and it must be confirmed by the government. This means it is the last throw of the dice by Kostunica to force his coalition partners to do what he wants.
But it does mean elections, which means the end of Vojislav Kostunica's reign...
Yes, sadly, at the upcoming election we can only realistically expect B92, Danas and Vreme to report objectively and in context. Although a majority of those who voted at the last presidential elections, voted in favour of a pro-EU policy, expect the Radicals and fellow-travellers the DSS to intimidate the democrats and liberals via the press, nationalistic publications such as NIN and instruments of propaganda, such as RTS. Good luck to B92 !
At last this dreadful Prime Minister has resigned. Serbs will now have an election and the choice is clear: recognize Kosovo as an independent republic and join the EU, or return to the madness, isolation and failed policies of Kostunica.
Come on folks, get a grip. The government has collapsed - fine. Even if Serbia does not really need this, the situation is as it is. Things could not continue as they were anyway. Now let the people decide - the positions of all parties are as clear as day. This election will be the real referendum on what Kosovo means to the Serbian people. At the very least, it should clear the air.
To those cheerleaders for the EU, just remember this: there was a tiny margin between the candidates for the presidential vote and a lot has happened since then.
"with Kosovo move forward into EU and a bright future of the two peoples."
Typical childish dark/white comment from an ignorant in a country without any history of its own. In deed, Europe should stop buying their worthless bloodmoney and thereby help them becomming non-parasites.
As I am reading this article, I am hoping that he resigns today and let Serbia, with Kosovo move forward into EU and a bright future of the two peoples.
It seems to me that soon he will resign and the Tadic has to dissolve the Parliament, so new general election for Serbia.
Kostunica is trying to score political points using Kosovo's loss as an excuse. He is trying to show to the public that he is a "real" Serb even he got defeated in the last Serbian Presidential election.
Kosovo is lost not because of Tadic's fault but because of Milosevic's nationalist and hegemonistic policies. Kostunica helped with his policies in speeding up the Kosovo's independence. I sincerely hope that the Serbian people gets these FACTS right when they go in the polls to choose the new government. I also wish and hope that Kostunica and his fellow polititans are out of the Serbian's politics because they will cause more pain to the Serbian people and the region.
Serbia needs an election in which all sides speak the truth about their visions for Serbia’s future.
Let Tadic stand up and tell the Serbs that he is for the EU regardless of what the EU does to Serbia or demands of it.
Let Kostunica stand up and tell the Serbs that Kosovo is more important than the EU and that he will defend Serbia even if this is unpopular with politicians in Washington, Berlin, London and Brussels.
This government never worked properly, so it is best that you start over. Kosovo is far more important then joining the EU. It should be clear to anyone willing to “have an ear” that Serbia will never join the EU with Kosovo if at all. Why? Because that is the way Germany and its allies want it. Two choices now, let Kosovo go and keep hoping for the EU to let you in, or keep your nation intact and independent trading with West & East but have closer political relations with countries that respect your right to exist. Kosovo is a precedent not only for the world but also for Serbia. If certain powers get away with this it will only wet their appetites for more, only central Serbia will be left (if you get lucky). Kosovo is about national survival, whether Serbs will live in their own country free and independent, or in other countries as a minority (every Serb knows how that always turns out). Nothing is more important right now then maintaining your territorial integrity and it should be CRYSTAL CLEAR by now that the DS, G17 only want integration with the organizations that have been and still are directly involved in the further disintegration of Serbia and other Serb areas like the RS. To the Serbs in RS, hold your referendum. If it is your desire to leave the state you are now somewhat a part of then do so quickly, you have a precedent, and backing, no one is in a position to stop this now but your window won’t be open for too long. I look forward to an independent Serb nation (including RS, Kosovo) and a new government that will work for the Serbian people and only them (unlike most so-called democratic nations).
Come on folks, get a grip. The government has collapsed - fine. Even if Serbia does not really need this, the situation is as it is. Things could not continue as they were anyway. Now let the people decide - the positions of all parties are as clear as day. This election will be the real referendum on what Kosovo means to the Serbian people. At the very least, it should clear the air.
To those cheerleaders for the EU, just remember this: there was a tiny margin between the candidates for the presidential vote and a lot has happened since then.
"with Kosovo move forward into EU and a bright future of the two peoples."
Typical childish dark/white comment from an ignorant in a country without any history of its own. In deed, Europe should stop buying their worthless bloodmoney and thereby help them becomming non-parasites.
As a friend of the K-Albanians I watch in a very relaxed way these latest self-serving maneuvers of Kostunica. The fact that Kosovo is now independent and recognized by most European countries and the USA is the main thing. Now nobody can tell the K-Albanians anymore that "please wait 2 more months until the Serbian elections are over to not help the radicals and Kostunica".
At this point I don't care what the Serbs do. It is up to them to decide between self-destructive nationalism and a bright European future.
If they opt for the Kostunica way that will greatly help Kosovo even further in its consolidation and support by rich democratic countries.
As I am reading this article, I am hoping that he resigns today and let Serbia, with Kosovo move forward into EU and a bright future of the two peoples.
“…. I say that he no longer has the confidence of the Serbian people… “
I can’t speak for people as you do bganon, but he certainly does have my confidence. Considering circumstances, he did splendid job. Best proof of that is all the venom thrown over him by Albanian posters.
It seems to me that soon he will resign and the Tadic has to dissolve the Parliament, so new general election for Serbia.
Kostunica is trying to score political points using Kosovo's loss as an excuse. He is trying to show to the public that he is a "real" Serb even he got defeated in the last Serbian Presidential election.
Kosovo is lost not because of Tadic's fault but because of Milosevic's nationalist and hegemonistic policies. Kostunica helped with his policies in speeding up the Kosovo's independence. I sincerely hope that the Serbian people gets these FACTS right when they go in the polls to choose the new government. I also wish and hope that Kostunica and his fellow polititans are out of the Serbian's politics because they will cause more pain to the Serbian people and the region.
This is not unexpected. The only thing I do not understand is why we have to wait until May. I think it is in Serbia's and all Serbs' interest to have election ASAP. All parties must make it very clear what they stand for. Serbia with or without Kosovo in the EU, EU or independent or closer relationships with Russia and others, Kosovo back or let go, NATO or no NATO. The only thing one can ask of the politicians is to put all egos aside and be united. A united Serbia can be strong and confident, a divided Serbia is weak, passive and is easy to take advantage of. Also be a government that is willing to defend all Serbs (in Serbia, Kosovo and Republika Srpska) and be a goverment that can tell the EU "NO" if necessary. Otherwise lets become a kingdom again or have a strong military government. We will get over all this and be stronger, but there is too much to be lost until we get there again.
I am listening to him now. Kostunica says he doesnt have confidence in his coalition partners. I say that he no longer has the confidence of the Serbian people.
He thinks (or rather says) that there is disunity over Kosovo when even the birds on the trees know that all of the government supports Kosovo in Serbia.
By the way (for your information) Kostunica's decision is not final and it must be confirmed by the government. This means it is the last throw of the dice by Kostunica to force his coalition partners to do what he wants.
But it does mean elections, which means the end of Vojislav Kostunica's reign...
At last this dreadful Prime Minister has resigned. Serbs will now have an election and the choice is clear: recognize Kosovo as an independent republic and join the EU, or return to the madness, isolation and failed policies of Kostunica.
This is a warning of instability in the Balkans for some time to come. I only hope the Serbians/Greece/Romania/Russia show their teeth to the rest of Europe /U.S. and make them understand that whatever these Albanians do they will not succeed in taking Serbia's heritage/dignity away. Otherwise these Alabanian will continue on taking territories from Greece, Skopje, Bosnia, etc. and lead to a major war.
What is going to happen to Action plan, Top Secret?
Is anyone going to support K-Serbs?
What is going to happen to Kosovo je Serbija thing?
--
More importantly Olf, what is Thaci going to do when he sees K-Serbs voting in Serbian elections at official Serbian voting centres in the province of Serbia?
Is he going to cry to NATO or the UN and tell them to stop it? This will be a good test to see whether they accept the de facto partition!
“… there’s no reason not to learn from the experiences of others…”
There are very important differences, between Ireland and Serbia versus EU. You have issues only with English, other countries in EU are neutral. In our case, number of powerfull countries are deliberately hostile to us, (especially Germany have an axe to grind) and this is not going to stop any time soon. They didn’t go to all this trouble in last (almost) 20 years, doing everything they could to destroy us, to now all of the sudden make us prosperous and happy in EU.
When I read how the Democratic Party and the G17 Plus want to change Kosovo for the European Union lollypops, I wonder: Where has the Serbian dignity gone?
Serbs use to be a very worthy people, uncapable of losing its dignity for a bag of lollypops. What a shame!
Apparently, most of the posters to this site neglect to read the world news on the Internet. Kostunica has pounded the last nail into the DS coffin with this move. In desperation, Jeremic has asked the Russians to open a Security Council debate on Kosovo this Tuesday to "show" the Serbs that the DS is still fighting for Kosovo. Nothing will come out of that debate and, in May, Tomislav Nikolic will be the new prime minister and Kostunica will be the new foreign minister. In order for the DS to stay in power, they will have to catch and turn over Mladic and Karadzic to the Hague and sign the SAA before the May election. I give better odds to the us catching osama before May.
No guys
this means SRS and nationalist NO EU man are vining in May election.
The very direct consequence of the countries who pushed for this illegal, rogue independence, and of course to be held for.
You cannot show defiance to the World's most powerful Empire. Don't you realise what the US government says goes? By the end of this decade you Serbs will be like the Native Americans. Like them, you are trying to show defiance to a mighty power and you will end up the same way. Go ahead and sign everything the US and EU puts in front of you but don't be surprised if they renege on their promises a few years later. Soon there will be no Serbian state - the US and EU will create an independent Vojvodina and Sandzak, Presevo Valley, etc. And you Serbs who attempted to show defiance will be living on a few reservations like those proud, defiant, but ultimately foolish Native Americans. Living on the handouts of the EU to maintain your meagre existence.
But, it doesn't have to end like that. There are enough countries out there Serbia can make alliances with and does not have to join the EU. Russia, China, Venezuela, India, South Africa, Spain - these are all countries Serbia can strengthen political, economic and military links.
If Cuba can defy the US for all this time so can Serbia. And why does the US despise Cuba? Merely for the fact that it stands up to the big bully that is the US. This is why the US government is outraged by Serbia'a defiance. You simply must do what you are told. It's time to stand up to the bully once and for all.
Serbia has been given a bad rap by the international propaganda machines and been made into a "bad guy" by many...but I must ask three questions and make one comment...
Has anything really changed now that Kosovo is "independent?"
Was Serbia ever going to exercise real sovereignty over the area?
Have the Serbian Leaders ever made an attempt in the last 50 years to actually treat the Kosovo Albanians as bona-fide citizens of their country?
Take a real, honest look at history, get a book written by a Serbian, a Kosovo Albanian, and as close to an objective international historian as you can, then decide where you want your country to go...good luck and best wishes to all Serbs and Albanians
"with Kosovo move forward into EU and a bright future of the two peoples."
Typical childish dark/white comment from an ignorant in a country without any history of its own. In deed, Europe should stop buying their worthless bloodmoney and thereby help them becomming non-parasites.
(gf, 8 March 2008 15:56)
This ignorant, and that is me, knew that he was going to resign.
By the way, thanx for the insult. Coming from you is meaningless.
An old say: "people talk what they know!"
I wish luck to Mr. Tadic, and hope that a new generation of leaders will take over and make Serbia a TRUE DEMOCRACY.
One thing i am glad that Kostunica was not in charge of the Serbian Army!!!
As for some arguments here that Serbia needs to protect Serbs in RS and Kosovo, protect from WHO?
smile is that a quip from your politicians quotebook?
Look at it this way. Economic policy will go to hell - prices will go up -inflation will be at least 15 percent by the end of the year. The stock market will plunge (it already did on Friday on rumours of the government collapse). Investors will withdraw. In the meantime we will have elections the radicals will win and will form a coalition with DSS. Oh yeah and all those old folks (SPS, SRS supporters) who queued up for free shares will get nothing. Kind of amusing really right?
Serbs in southern Kosovo will be ethnically cleansed (under SRS / DSS. The west will be firmer than ever on Kosovo and Serbia may lose northern Kosovo. I can even see a low intensity war fought between Serb proxies (certain groups) and NATO. If that happens Serbia will lose all of Kosovo.
If you think thats a good thing then more fool you.
But 'traitors' have no reason to be nervous. They want SRS in power as they will cash in from funding through the NGO sector, as will sections of the media. Money will probably pour into the coffers of LDP too.
Personally I'm ready to invest in the stock market as soon as I estimate it (we) hits rock bottom, not yet. Lets hope that not too many workers will lose their jobs as a result of radical / dss policies, but its out of my hands.
Still its worth all of this isnt it, just to punish right Tadic, and I'm sure it will show that Holbrooke as well :)
What's the point of dissolving the government and calling for new elections? We all know the same people are going to be reelected to office, and Kostunica will be, again, the deal breaker between DS or SRS. As in the past, DS and SRS will be the two biggest winners but not enough to forge a majority government. Then Kostunica will come waltzing in, looking for which party can outbid the other in giving DSS control of government reigns.
The only danger now is the potential for a DSS-SRS coalition. If this is Kostunica's strategy, DS better start campaigning tomorrow.
I fully understand Kostunica and I agree with what he did here, for once.
He has had a clear position vis-a-vis the Albanians, he has shown utmost contempt towards a population that he claims as his own. His goal is continued Serbian domination over Albanians and it's too late for him to change.
He did the right thing, the only reasonable thing, he stepped down and now Serbs have a choice: continue with the old tricks or start on a new path.
“It (the SAA) cannot be ratified by all the EU countries individually and those who have recognized Kosovo's independence cannot accept an agreement that says Serbia is a whole state with Kosovo in its borders," Koštunica explained.
This statement is clearly misleading if not dishonest
When Ireland joined the EEC in 1973, in still maintained a constitutional claim over the six counties of Northern Ireland. Neither the other member states nor the UK attempted to prevent Ireland’s membership despite this fact, (nor, it could be argued, did Ireland attempt to thwart the UK joining despite its claim to NI as an integral part of the UK).
Northern Ireland’s ‘Final Status’ will continue to be disputed, but there is a general understanding that this will change only by mutual agreement and following democratic principles.
History may not contain ‘political blueprints’ for the future, but there’s no reason not to learn from the experiences of others.
This is the end of Kostunica. He will remembered as the man that rose to power from Kosova events and fell from the same thing. Serbs are rational people. They know that the history of Kosova is closed for the rest of coming 1000 yrs, and it is the Serbs who will need Europa not Europa needs them. So in coming elections he will get booted. In march the number of countries that recognise Kosova is expected to reach 165.
"As for some arguments here that Serbia needs to protect Serbs in RS and Kosovo, protect from WHO?
(lazer, nyc, usa, 8 March 2008 20:10) "
lazer, nyc,usa
From WHO? Let me give you a clue -- remember March 2004? And why Nato/Kfor are today still nervously patrolling the Ibar? And not removing the barbed wires surrounding the Serb enclaves south of the Ibar?
Unfortunately for DS that abandoned Zoran Djindjic's way, after a long time of being "neither meat nor fish", the party will loose the elections. I despise Radical Party but see that exactly them will win now. The West will not give money for DS pre-elections campaign nor any Serbian tycoon, and already during Zoran Djindjic the West showed not to care about progressive forces in Serbia except "friendly" wording: but now Russia will give money for the Radicals to win.
Kostunica is a big player in this game, I would not neglect his inteligency at all: he wants to remain in Serbian history Charles De Gaule. He knows that Kosovo is out of Serbia and never will again become its part: absurd would be to found a state with 2 milion unfreandly people: yet the price for it must someone pay: and it will be Europe.
Yes, sadly, at the upcoming election we can only realistically expect B92, Danas and Vreme to report objectively and in context. Although a majority of those who voted at the last presidential elections, voted in favour of a pro-EU policy, expect the Radicals and fellow-travellers the DSS to intimidate the democrats and liberals via the press, nationalistic publications such as NIN and instruments of propaganda, such as RTS. Good luck to B92 !
May election results (
my humble prognosis) :
SRS - 35% / 40%
DS - 20% - 25%
DSS - 10% - 15%
NS - 5% -10%
SPS - 5%
G17 - out
Group around Mr. Jovanovic- out
New government (SRS-NS-DSS).
EU will call the election and the results non-democratic.
Serbia's NATO / EU option will move to the back burner...
Over the next 5 years, Serbia's foreign policy aligns more with that of Russia and China.
As I see,soon Kosova wont be a priority for Serbia anymore but EU integration.Good, serbian leaders have understood that is worthless fighting for something that has already gone and no chance to get it back so they are looking for a better future as they should had done long time ago.Soon those pro European politicians will accept Kosova's independence as well, thats a very good move.Now its time for K-serbs to accept Kosova's institutions and be a part of it, thats where your future lies.
to lowe: clue well taken.
Here is another one. Remember 1998 and 1999?
Or 1990-1999?
You did not live in kosovo, so you probably dont know. And if someone other then serbian tells you, you just dont believe it.
Take a hard look at the facts about Kosovo, stand in front of the mirror and be realistic.
Son of Gunnar I'm not sure if you are supporting the Serb radical party or if you are supporting the independence of Kosovo but your estimates are wrong.
The only one you have right is support for SRS, but I won't bother correcting you as you've got them all wrong.
I would only add that in a situation where the political system in a country is increasingly polarised it stands to reason that more extreme parties will win and parties between will suffer.
It is interesting to see how much the decisions of the Albanians of Kosovo are influencing the politics of Serbia now that they are gone, and how little they influenced it when they were in Serbia.
Elect whoever you want, Kosovo is not going to come back.
Kostunica said there would be instability and is trying to keep faith to his promise I guess.
The only good thing related to Kosovo that you could work on right now is the return of the Serb refugees there (I still think it is possible). You need to gain the trust of the Albanians for that and the only ones that have some leverage on the Albanians now, especially now are the EU and the US.
As a friend of the K-Albanians I watch in a very relaxed way these latest self-serving maneuvers of Kostunica. The fact that Kosovo is now independent and recognized by most European countries and the USA is the main thing. Now nobody can tell the K-Albanians anymore that "please wait 2 more months until the Serbian elections are over to not help the radicals and Kostunica".
At this point I don't care what the Serbs do. It is up to them to decide between self-destructive nationalism and a bright European future.
If they opt for the Kostunica way that will greatly help Kosovo even further in its consolidation and support by rich democratic countries.
At last this dreadful Prime Minister has resigned. Serbs will now have an election and the choice is clear: recognize Kosovo as an independent republic and join the EU, or return to the madness, isolation and failed policies of Kostunica.
As I am reading this article, I am hoping that he resigns today and let Serbia, with Kosovo move forward into EU and a bright future of the two peoples.
It seems to me that soon he will resign and the Tadic has to dissolve the Parliament, so new general election for Serbia.
Kostunica is trying to score political points using Kosovo's loss as an excuse. He is trying to show to the public that he is a "real" Serb even he got defeated in the last Serbian Presidential election.
Kosovo is lost not because of Tadic's fault but because of Milosevic's nationalist and hegemonistic policies. Kostunica helped with his policies in speeding up the Kosovo's independence. I sincerely hope that the Serbian people gets these FACTS right when they go in the polls to choose the new government. I also wish and hope that Kostunica and his fellow polititans are out of the Serbian's politics because they will cause more pain to the Serbian people and the region.
"with Kosovo move forward into EU and a bright future of the two peoples."
Typical childish dark/white comment from an ignorant in a country without any history of its own. In deed, Europe should stop buying their worthless bloodmoney and thereby help them becomming non-parasites.
I fully understand Kostunica and I agree with what he did here, for once.
He has had a clear position vis-a-vis the Albanians, he has shown utmost contempt towards a population that he claims as his own. His goal is continued Serbian domination over Albanians and it's too late for him to change.
He did the right thing, the only reasonable thing, he stepped down and now Serbs have a choice: continue with the old tricks or start on a new path.
I am listening to him now. Kostunica says he doesnt have confidence in his coalition partners. I say that he no longer has the confidence of the Serbian people.
He thinks (or rather says) that there is disunity over Kosovo when even the birds on the trees know that all of the government supports Kosovo in Serbia.
By the way (for your information) Kostunica's decision is not final and it must be confirmed by the government. This means it is the last throw of the dice by Kostunica to force his coalition partners to do what he wants.
But it does mean elections, which means the end of Vojislav Kostunica's reign...
"with Kosovo move forward into EU and a bright future of the two peoples."
Typical childish dark/white comment from an ignorant in a country without any history of its own. In deed, Europe should stop buying their worthless bloodmoney and thereby help them becomming non-parasites.
(gf, 8 March 2008 15:56)
This ignorant, and that is me, knew that he was going to resign.
By the way, thanx for the insult. Coming from you is meaningless.
An old say: "people talk what they know!"
I wish luck to Mr. Tadic, and hope that a new generation of leaders will take over and make Serbia a TRUE DEMOCRACY.
One thing i am glad that Kostunica was not in charge of the Serbian Army!!!
As for some arguments here that Serbia needs to protect Serbs in RS and Kosovo, protect from WHO?
This is the end of Kostunica. He will remembered as the man that rose to power from Kosova events and fell from the same thing. Serbs are rational people. They know that the history of Kosova is closed for the rest of coming 1000 yrs, and it is the Serbs who will need Europa not Europa needs them. So in coming elections he will get booted. In march the number of countries that recognise Kosova is expected to reach 165.
Yes, sadly, at the upcoming election we can only realistically expect B92, Danas and Vreme to report objectively and in context. Although a majority of those who voted at the last presidential elections, voted in favour of a pro-EU policy, expect the Radicals and fellow-travellers the DSS to intimidate the democrats and liberals via the press, nationalistic publications such as NIN and instruments of propaganda, such as RTS. Good luck to B92 !
As I see,soon Kosova wont be a priority for Serbia anymore but EU integration.Good, serbian leaders have understood that is worthless fighting for something that has already gone and no chance to get it back so they are looking for a better future as they should had done long time ago.Soon those pro European politicians will accept Kosova's independence as well, thats a very good move.Now its time for K-serbs to accept Kosova's institutions and be a part of it, thats where your future lies.
Unfortunately for DS that abandoned Zoran Djindjic's way, after a long time of being "neither meat nor fish", the party will loose the elections. I despise Radical Party but see that exactly them will win now. The West will not give money for DS pre-elections campaign nor any Serbian tycoon, and already during Zoran Djindjic the West showed not to care about progressive forces in Serbia except "friendly" wording: but now Russia will give money for the Radicals to win.
Kostunica is a big player in this game, I would not neglect his inteligency at all: he wants to remain in Serbian history Charles De Gaule. He knows that Kosovo is out of Serbia and never will again become its part: absurd would be to found a state with 2 milion unfreandly people: yet the price for it must someone pay: and it will be Europe.
It is interesting to see how much the decisions of the Albanians of Kosovo are influencing the politics of Serbia now that they are gone, and how little they influenced it when they were in Serbia.
Elect whoever you want, Kosovo is not going to come back.
Kostunica said there would be instability and is trying to keep faith to his promise I guess.
The only good thing related to Kosovo that you could work on right now is the return of the Serb refugees there (I still think it is possible). You need to gain the trust of the Albanians for that and the only ones that have some leverage on the Albanians now, especially now are the EU and the US.
to lowe: clue well taken.
Here is another one. Remember 1998 and 1999?
Or 1990-1999?
You did not live in kosovo, so you probably dont know. And if someone other then serbian tells you, you just dont believe it.
Take a hard look at the facts about Kosovo, stand in front of the mirror and be realistic.
What's the point of dissolving the government and calling for new elections? We all know the same people are going to be reelected to office, and Kostunica will be, again, the deal breaker between DS or SRS. As in the past, DS and SRS will be the two biggest winners but not enough to forge a majority government. Then Kostunica will come waltzing in, looking for which party can outbid the other in giving DSS control of government reigns.
The only danger now is the potential for a DSS-SRS coalition. If this is Kostunica's strategy, DS better start campaigning tomorrow.
You cannot show defiance to the World's most powerful Empire. Don't you realise what the US government says goes? By the end of this decade you Serbs will be like the Native Americans. Like them, you are trying to show defiance to a mighty power and you will end up the same way. Go ahead and sign everything the US and EU puts in front of you but don't be surprised if they renege on their promises a few years later. Soon there will be no Serbian state - the US and EU will create an independent Vojvodina and Sandzak, Presevo Valley, etc. And you Serbs who attempted to show defiance will be living on a few reservations like those proud, defiant, but ultimately foolish Native Americans. Living on the handouts of the EU to maintain your meagre existence.
But, it doesn't have to end like that. There are enough countries out there Serbia can make alliances with and does not have to join the EU. Russia, China, Venezuela, India, South Africa, Spain - these are all countries Serbia can strengthen political, economic and military links.
If Cuba can defy the US for all this time so can Serbia. And why does the US despise Cuba? Merely for the fact that it stands up to the big bully that is the US. This is why the US government is outraged by Serbia'a defiance. You simply must do what you are told. It's time to stand up to the bully once and for all.
smile is that a quip from your politicians quotebook?
Look at it this way. Economic policy will go to hell - prices will go up -inflation will be at least 15 percent by the end of the year. The stock market will plunge (it already did on Friday on rumours of the government collapse). Investors will withdraw. In the meantime we will have elections the radicals will win and will form a coalition with DSS. Oh yeah and all those old folks (SPS, SRS supporters) who queued up for free shares will get nothing. Kind of amusing really right?
Serbs in southern Kosovo will be ethnically cleansed (under SRS / DSS. The west will be firmer than ever on Kosovo and Serbia may lose northern Kosovo. I can even see a low intensity war fought between Serb proxies (certain groups) and NATO. If that happens Serbia will lose all of Kosovo.
If you think thats a good thing then more fool you.
But 'traitors' have no reason to be nervous. They want SRS in power as they will cash in from funding through the NGO sector, as will sections of the media. Money will probably pour into the coffers of LDP too.
Personally I'm ready to invest in the stock market as soon as I estimate it (we) hits rock bottom, not yet. Lets hope that not too many workers will lose their jobs as a result of radical / dss policies, but its out of my hands.
Still its worth all of this isnt it, just to punish right Tadic, and I'm sure it will show that Holbrooke as well :)
Serbia needs an election in which all sides speak the truth about their visions for Serbia’s future.
Let Tadic stand up and tell the Serbs that he is for the EU regardless of what the EU does to Serbia or demands of it.
Let Kostunica stand up and tell the Serbs that Kosovo is more important than the EU and that he will defend Serbia even if this is unpopular with politicians in Washington, Berlin, London and Brussels.
“It (the SAA) cannot be ratified by all the EU countries individually and those who have recognized Kosovo's independence cannot accept an agreement that says Serbia is a whole state with Kosovo in its borders," Koštunica explained.
This statement is clearly misleading if not dishonest
When Ireland joined the EEC in 1973, in still maintained a constitutional claim over the six counties of Northern Ireland. Neither the other member states nor the UK attempted to prevent Ireland’s membership despite this fact, (nor, it could be argued, did Ireland attempt to thwart the UK joining despite its claim to NI as an integral part of the UK).
Northern Ireland’s ‘Final Status’ will continue to be disputed, but there is a general understanding that this will change only by mutual agreement and following democratic principles.
History may not contain ‘political blueprints’ for the future, but there’s no reason not to learn from the experiences of others.
What is going to happen to Action plan, Top Secret?
Is anyone going to support K-Serbs?
What is going to happen to Kosovo je Serbija thing?
--
More importantly Olf, what is Thaci going to do when he sees K-Serbs voting in Serbian elections at official Serbian voting centres in the province of Serbia?
Is he going to cry to NATO or the UN and tell them to stop it? This will be a good test to see whether they accept the de facto partition!
When I read how the Democratic Party and the G17 Plus want to change Kosovo for the European Union lollypops, I wonder: Where has the Serbian dignity gone?
Serbs use to be a very worthy people, uncapable of losing its dignity for a bag of lollypops. What a shame!
No guys
this means SRS and nationalist NO EU man are vining in May election.
The very direct consequence of the countries who pushed for this illegal, rogue independence, and of course to be held for.
Serbia has been given a bad rap by the international propaganda machines and been made into a "bad guy" by many...but I must ask three questions and make one comment...
Has anything really changed now that Kosovo is "independent?"
Was Serbia ever going to exercise real sovereignty over the area?
Have the Serbian Leaders ever made an attempt in the last 50 years to actually treat the Kosovo Albanians as bona-fide citizens of their country?
Take a real, honest look at history, get a book written by a Serbian, a Kosovo Albanian, and as close to an objective international historian as you can, then decide where you want your country to go...good luck and best wishes to all Serbs and Albanians
May election results (
my humble prognosis) :
SRS - 35% / 40%
DS - 20% - 25%
DSS - 10% - 15%
NS - 5% -10%
SPS - 5%
G17 - out
Group around Mr. Jovanovic- out
New government (SRS-NS-DSS).
EU will call the election and the results non-democratic.
Serbia's NATO / EU option will move to the back burner...
Over the next 5 years, Serbia's foreign policy aligns more with that of Russia and China.
Come on folks, get a grip. The government has collapsed - fine. Even if Serbia does not really need this, the situation is as it is. Things could not continue as they were anyway. Now let the people decide - the positions of all parties are as clear as day. This election will be the real referendum on what Kosovo means to the Serbian people. At the very least, it should clear the air.
To those cheerleaders for the EU, just remember this: there was a tiny margin between the candidates for the presidential vote and a lot has happened since then.
“…. I say that he no longer has the confidence of the Serbian people… “
I can’t speak for people as you do bganon, but he certainly does have my confidence. Considering circumstances, he did splendid job. Best proof of that is all the venom thrown over him by Albanian posters.
This is not unexpected. The only thing I do not understand is why we have to wait until May. I think it is in Serbia's and all Serbs' interest to have election ASAP. All parties must make it very clear what they stand for. Serbia with or without Kosovo in the EU, EU or independent or closer relationships with Russia and others, Kosovo back or let go, NATO or no NATO. The only thing one can ask of the politicians is to put all egos aside and be united. A united Serbia can be strong and confident, a divided Serbia is weak, passive and is easy to take advantage of. Also be a government that is willing to defend all Serbs (in Serbia, Kosovo and Republika Srpska) and be a goverment that can tell the EU "NO" if necessary. Otherwise lets become a kingdom again or have a strong military government. We will get over all this and be stronger, but there is too much to be lost until we get there again.
This government never worked properly, so it is best that you start over. Kosovo is far more important then joining the EU. It should be clear to anyone willing to “have an ear” that Serbia will never join the EU with Kosovo if at all. Why? Because that is the way Germany and its allies want it. Two choices now, let Kosovo go and keep hoping for the EU to let you in, or keep your nation intact and independent trading with West & East but have closer political relations with countries that respect your right to exist. Kosovo is a precedent not only for the world but also for Serbia. If certain powers get away with this it will only wet their appetites for more, only central Serbia will be left (if you get lucky). Kosovo is about national survival, whether Serbs will live in their own country free and independent, or in other countries as a minority (every Serb knows how that always turns out). Nothing is more important right now then maintaining your territorial integrity and it should be CRYSTAL CLEAR by now that the DS, G17 only want integration with the organizations that have been and still are directly involved in the further disintegration of Serbia and other Serb areas like the RS. To the Serbs in RS, hold your referendum. If it is your desire to leave the state you are now somewhat a part of then do so quickly, you have a precedent, and backing, no one is in a position to stop this now but your window won’t be open for too long. I look forward to an independent Serb nation (including RS, Kosovo) and a new government that will work for the Serbian people and only them (unlike most so-called democratic nations).
Apparently, most of the posters to this site neglect to read the world news on the Internet. Kostunica has pounded the last nail into the DS coffin with this move. In desperation, Jeremic has asked the Russians to open a Security Council debate on Kosovo this Tuesday to "show" the Serbs that the DS is still fighting for Kosovo. Nothing will come out of that debate and, in May, Tomislav Nikolic will be the new prime minister and Kostunica will be the new foreign minister. In order for the DS to stay in power, they will have to catch and turn over Mladic and Karadzic to the Hague and sign the SAA before the May election. I give better odds to the us catching osama before May.
This is a warning of instability in the Balkans for some time to come. I only hope the Serbians/Greece/Romania/Russia show their teeth to the rest of Europe /U.S. and make them understand that whatever these Albanians do they will not succeed in taking Serbia's heritage/dignity away. Otherwise these Alabanian will continue on taking territories from Greece, Skopje, Bosnia, etc. and lead to a major war.
“… there’s no reason not to learn from the experiences of others…”
There are very important differences, between Ireland and Serbia versus EU. You have issues only with English, other countries in EU are neutral. In our case, number of powerfull countries are deliberately hostile to us, (especially Germany have an axe to grind) and this is not going to stop any time soon. They didn’t go to all this trouble in last (almost) 20 years, doing everything they could to destroy us, to now all of the sudden make us prosperous and happy in EU.
"As for some arguments here that Serbia needs to protect Serbs in RS and Kosovo, protect from WHO?
(lazer, nyc, usa, 8 March 2008 20:10) "
lazer, nyc,usa
From WHO? Let me give you a clue -- remember March 2004? And why Nato/Kfor are today still nervously patrolling the Ibar? And not removing the barbed wires surrounding the Serb enclaves south of the Ibar?
Son of Gunnar I'm not sure if you are supporting the Serb radical party or if you are supporting the independence of Kosovo but your estimates are wrong.
The only one you have right is support for SRS, but I won't bother correcting you as you've got them all wrong.
I would only add that in a situation where the political system in a country is increasingly polarised it stands to reason that more extreme parties will win and parties between will suffer.
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