20

Saturday, 27.09.2008.

12:51

Koštunica favors lawsuits over Kosovo

Vojislav Koštunica says recognizing Kosovo could be made into a condition for Serbia to join the European Union.

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20 Komentari

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Jovan

pre 15 godina

well, I am strictly against any partition of serbian territory, and I do not think that is not "realistic"...

times are changing, and the US will have to make up their minds, whether they want to support a non-democratic mafia-infested bunch who do not even care for their own families, but succsessfully make the K-albanians believe that they are acting in their interests...

what an absurdity...

no, the only thing Serbia needs is to stay on the road, and follow it right to the end.

time is on our side, not to mention moral, justice and history.

let´s just wait a little bit, the US-economy has lost a lot of it´s strenght... the average american citizen cannot trust in the continuity of american banks...and that is some rather good development, in regard to the aggressive policies the US are exercising in the balkans...

Serbia´s time is still to come.

and all those cynical comments by our dear albanian friends, are in reality only showing their true feelings...

desperation.

don´t worry, dear K-albanians. Serbia will prevail, and you will profit of it.

Steve P

pre 15 godina

Serbia should sue the Muslim government of Kosovo and use some of the money to rebuild the destroyed churches and monasteries in Kosovo.

Peggy

pre 15 godina

Bganon, you are certainly more of an optimist than I am, especially when I see who is on Obama's team.

The noises coming from some EU representatives do give the impression that EU entry and Kosovo are likely to be linked. I hope not, but it is starting to look like that.

Serbia cannot enter the EU any time soon as more and more conditions are being put on it and the Irish have derailed that for the time being anyway. It is not up to Serbia how soon they enter the EU or even if they enter so trying to speed things up from this end is useless.
I agree with you that there have to be serious negotiations taking place but seeing who is on Obama's team and McCain is very pro independence, America is not going to change it's mind at all.
We have to do with what we are given and Serbia is not given very much at all.

bganon

pre 15 godina

Peggy I reject any linkage between EU membership and Kosovo, thats always been my position.

There are some in the EU and some in Serbia that create this linkage for their own political reasons but the fact is they will not be able to ask for this for as long as current EU states do not recognise Kosovo. They can hardly set a condition for membership if their own members don't abide by it. That is a double standard too far, even in this day and age of lack of universal principles.

But EU - Kosovo linkage cannot be ruled out, if those EU countries change their mind - thats why it is sensible to get a move on with EU integration, not to constantly drag our heels, as certain Serbian politicians are so brilliant at doing.

The US does not have to reverse its decision to recognise Kosovo independence to support real negotiations. It might be a long shot but this case might be a chance for the new Obama team to show how they respect international legal institutions and will go it alone less than they did in recent history.

Besides lets see how Kosovo Albanians view things after a court verdict, if it goes ahead. Events have a way of unfolding unexpectedly.

It might be a stretch to think that the ICJ can help solve the Kosovo issue, but at this point its the best chance both sides have - even if neither realises it.

Peggy

pre 15 godina

Bganon, I agree with you on that Serbs and Albanians need to go back to the negotiating table and seriously negotiate.

But, you know as well as I do that Albanians WILL NOT negotiate. They had a chance to do that and only stuck to their independence solution. They have no reason to negotiate for as long as America is in their corner.

How is getting a positive ICJ ruling going to inspire them to negotiate when America will simply ignore that ruling and carry on as if nothing has happened?

We know for a fact that nothing short of America reversing their decision will bring the Albanians back to negotiations, so why even hope for it.

Please don't take this as trying to be smart but I would like to know the answer to one question.
If the only way for Serbia to join the EU is to recognize Kosovo, would you support that? I feel that you want Serbia to join the EU at any cost but I could be wrong.

bganon

pre 15 godina

'bganon, what is the ICJ initiative going to change?'.

I'm sure you know my opinion about it, I've mentioned it often enough in the last few days. Its not about getting the west to change its mind, its about bringing the Albanians to the negotiating table. Probably you agree with me that the likelyhood is that Kosovo will be divided. What the ICJ judgment will be about is to get both sides to accept that they cannot get what they want, that a true compromise is the only solution. I realise that some feel stronger than me about wanting to retain Kosovo within Serbia at all costs but I feel its important to be realistic. The only realistic way forward is a historic agreement between Serbs and Albanians. No, it will never be milk and honey, but surely there can be peace. Surely we can create conditions for example for Serbs to return to the north of Kosovo? Surely the Albanians want to truly believe that the Serbian army will not return and need that guarantee. And surely the Albanians and Kosovo Serbs know that whilst this land is disputed Kosovo doesn't stand a snowball in hells chance of surviving as a viable state.

Both sides need to reach agreement and the case needs to be made for this in my opinion - for the sake of all.

If the ICJ inititative is all part of a Tadic PR campaign then fine - oppose it! Are you really so cynical that you can't see the wood from the trees?

You ask why wouldn't the west support Serbia's ICJ initiative? And you give reasons. My answer then is how come they don't support it? Its all very well to create an argument and the reasons why that argument stands but when the argument doesn't stand in the first place all the speculation is redundant. Clearly they are against the ICJ initiative and are trying every trick in the book to defeat the Serbian initiative.

What is so good about venom ZK? Does it make you feel better? Frankly who cares how it makes you or I feel? Results results results. Nothing else matters.

Unlike you I don't see a huge change in the geo-political situation. I don't see that Russia will ever go out on a limb for Serbia. We only get moderate benefit from the external situation and if we play it wrongly we can get screwed twice over if we are not careful. It takes a thinker rather than a table (or people) basher or spiteful legalist to get the best deal.

I think we should have strong economic and political ties with all countries that benefit Serbia. I don't believe there is such thing as having strong economic ties with a country without having strong political ties. One comes with the other and helps the other to benefit. If Serbian exports are to increase, if Serbian unemployment is to decrease, if Serbian businesses are to progress and the state to become richer we must have strong political and economic ties with our partners including countries like Russia, Italy, Germany who are very important trading partners. Under this government I think we are in a position to benefit the country much more than the other lot. I still rub my face sometimes as that potential disaster was a close shave.

ZK UK

pre 15 godina

Jovan, yes it will give us the moral and legal high ground but it is unlikely to change anything. Giving NATO the boot is the only way we can make our land free again and the way things are going they may just leave on their own.

Yes Ataman, they are crooks supporting thieves against the will of their citizens.

Ataman

pre 15 godina

I don't believe we should have strong political ties to those nations attempting to rip Serbia apart. It just doesn't make sense to me.
(ZK UK, 27 September 2008 17:32)

"Nation" or government? I am not aware of a single nation (OK, maybe one but it still a question) which is attempting to rip Serbia apart. Otherwise there are bunch of crooks in government(s) of some "Western" countries and their lapdogs in governments of other "Western" countries.

And as for ties to nations... the sad truth is: Serbs are much closer to Germans than to Russians. Want a proof? Pull out a Russian passport and try to cross a Serbian border. And be ready for surprise if you do not have a Serbian hotel vaucher or an ORIGINAL of an invitation from your Serbian friends.

Same is true in the other direction.

Compare it with a situation on Serbian border for holders of German passport.

Also (isn't it amazing?) it is relatively easy for Serbs to get a multiple-entry 10-year USA visa. There are more Serbs on daily Virgin Atlantic + JAT combined flights to San Francisco than on the daily train to Moscow.

I tried both...

pleurat

pre 15 godina

Kostunica is wright.Serbia should start lawsuits against the countries that have recognised independent Kosovo,and a lawsuit against Kosovo becouse it has a very good case.We all know about the aggresion and conspiracy against the Serbs.I think the Serbian army should bring forward a lawsuit against the Slovenes,Croats,Bosnians and Albanians. Serbs are the victims of western propaganda.

Steve P

pre 15 godina

Good. Kostunica should sue to get the most money allowed by law against all those countries recognizing Kosovo's independence.

Jovan

pre 15 godina

true words, ZK UK.

but I think that even the ICJ initiative is a tool for Serbia.

given that the initiative, if there is not something odd there, can only result in a positive ruling for Serbia, there is no reason not to do it.

afterwards, any other "recognition" will be against the law, and I mean, CLEARLY, against.

numerous of those who have committed that shameful act, will have to answer WHY they are acting against international law.

time works for Serbia, and therefore, let´s just see what future brings!

ZK UK

pre 15 godina

bganon, what is the ICJ initiative going to change? Even if it comes out in Serbia's favour you'll have the US & Co simply saying they disagree with it and nothing changes but you'll get a boost for Tadic & Co with all of these Serbians applauding him. Building up Tadic is in the interests of the West and making him look like the protector of Kosovo without actually achieving much will work in the interests of both Tadic and the West, so why wouldn't they support it? At least Koštunica's case would have had some venom in it.

Also, the way I see it is that the EU/US want control of the Balkans and without it they will miss a big piece of the jigsaw puzzle, however, I'm sure our friends in the East will have a nice place to put that piece. In that case Serbia should be treated with a little more respect otherwise the West will see who needs whom more. It is a little premature to talk about this right now but I'm sure it will become more apparent as the geopolitical situation changes.

Note that when it comes to economical ties, I have no problems with Serbia building this up where our interests lie but I don't believe we should have strong political ties to those nations attempting to rip Serbia apart. It just doesn't make sense to me.

fas

pre 15 godina

We can expect the ailing and bancrupt empire and their Euro vasalls to hang on to Camp Bondsteel (Kosovo, sorry) whith whatever they got left.

Especially after the brilliant Russian Check mate in the Caucasus. Serbs will again serve as pawns to suffer in the anglo-american game with even more land grabs, or maybe not.

If any time is right for the pro-serbian forces against the anti-serbians of the current regime, that time is now. The new soviet of €U and Poland and the balts seems to have learnd the hard way that NATO is just a paper tiger far away from balkans-99, maybe capable to slaughter Afghan tribes man but not countries with a fair chance to fight back, it´s time for Serbs to learn that too.

gjynypi

pre 15 godina

As an albanian, I like Kostunica better. Suing Western countries at ICJ would have been better for Kosova because, in that case, the Western countries would have done more to get a favorable ruling. Now, they do not care much because they are not directly on the dock. Ruling the declaration of independence 'illegal' is not the same as ruling the recognitions 'illegal'... I agree with those who say that Tadic (and over half of serbia who have voted for him) has effectively recognized Kosova. Sendin back withdrawn ambassadors is just one proof of this. The West is nudging Serbia toward recognitions, just as it has nudged it out of Croatia, Bosnia... and the West has been ALWAYS successful so far.... Serbia has failed both with radical and moderate policies...

cees

pre 15 godina

the question is to which court to send these lawsuits. I like the position of Kostunica, because it makes the position of Serbia clearer than the hypocritical way of the government and at the other hand of the EU. Both sides are trying not to hurt each-other by making a stinking mass out of it. EU should say loud and clear: "If Serbia want to join the EU, they have to except Kosova's independence", like Kostunica is demanding.
At the moment we have the situation of puting pressure on countries, which until now didn't make a decision on Kosova's UID, because this government realizes that outside the EU, Serbia will be outside the Balkans EU-unity. Both sides must make up their minds and show their clear positions!!

bganon

pre 15 godina

Well Kostunica is back then? Lawsuits are good?
Are they though, lawyers in EU countries say that pressing charges has little chance of success. If there is no chance of success then its pointless in my opinion.

I am not into doing something for the sake of doing it, or to show anger or displeasure. The reason for doing something is to get results, not to try to poke somebody in the eye.

In line with these policies why doesn't Kostunica explain to us how closing western embassies and re-calling Serbian ambassadors would help with the diplomatic initiative on Kosovo? I'd be fascinated to know how this would help Serbia.

Politics driven by results are important, not driven by the desire to spite other countries.

ZK I can't imagine how the west on the one hand is desperately trying to stop Serbia at the ICJ and on the other wants it to go to court. That doesn't make any sense.

And this 'they need us more than we need them', if that is true then why do we hear this repeated ad nauseum? Surely those who have no need for 'them' have no need to talk about 'them'?

In the end we will see just how much Serbians believe they need the EU. A good start to showing that you don't need something or someone, is to refuse their financial support. I don't see anybody in Serbia doing this. I don't know if that is your position?

bmrusila

pre 15 godina

Wise man speaks wisely. He is absolutely right when talking about direct passing the lawsuits against the countries that have recognised Kosovo UDI. That would have made more sense.

It would be more effective since the international law in Kosovo case was brutally violated and the International court could not ignore that fact. Therefore, there would be no other way for the Court than to rule lawsuits out in favour for Serbia finding those countries guilty and charging them with millions (if not billions) of Euros as compensation.
After that, each country would rethink its decision, and surely, many would revoke its recognition while the process of further recognitions would have stopped for good.

ZK UK

pre 15 godina

I couldn't agree more here with Koštunica. The lawsuits should have started from the very beginning and it was Tadic who prevented them - presumably to not upset his Western partners who are attempting to rip Serbia apart.

For that reason I do not trust the DS or this ICJ initiative. I suspect it is all being orchestrated by the West even though they are publicly objecting to it.

The bankrupt states of the Euro/Atlantic alliance need Serbia more than we need them. Who controls Serbia controls the Balkans and as far as I'm concerned the West has already burnt their bridges.

ZK UK

pre 15 godina

I couldn't agree more here with Koštunica. The lawsuits should have started from the very beginning and it was Tadic who prevented them - presumably to not upset his Western partners who are attempting to rip Serbia apart.

For that reason I do not trust the DS or this ICJ initiative. I suspect it is all being orchestrated by the West even though they are publicly objecting to it.

The bankrupt states of the Euro/Atlantic alliance need Serbia more than we need them. Who controls Serbia controls the Balkans and as far as I'm concerned the West has already burnt their bridges.

bmrusila

pre 15 godina

Wise man speaks wisely. He is absolutely right when talking about direct passing the lawsuits against the countries that have recognised Kosovo UDI. That would have made more sense.

It would be more effective since the international law in Kosovo case was brutally violated and the International court could not ignore that fact. Therefore, there would be no other way for the Court than to rule lawsuits out in favour for Serbia finding those countries guilty and charging them with millions (if not billions) of Euros as compensation.
After that, each country would rethink its decision, and surely, many would revoke its recognition while the process of further recognitions would have stopped for good.

bganon

pre 15 godina

Well Kostunica is back then? Lawsuits are good?
Are they though, lawyers in EU countries say that pressing charges has little chance of success. If there is no chance of success then its pointless in my opinion.

I am not into doing something for the sake of doing it, or to show anger or displeasure. The reason for doing something is to get results, not to try to poke somebody in the eye.

In line with these policies why doesn't Kostunica explain to us how closing western embassies and re-calling Serbian ambassadors would help with the diplomatic initiative on Kosovo? I'd be fascinated to know how this would help Serbia.

Politics driven by results are important, not driven by the desire to spite other countries.

ZK I can't imagine how the west on the one hand is desperately trying to stop Serbia at the ICJ and on the other wants it to go to court. That doesn't make any sense.

And this 'they need us more than we need them', if that is true then why do we hear this repeated ad nauseum? Surely those who have no need for 'them' have no need to talk about 'them'?

In the end we will see just how much Serbians believe they need the EU. A good start to showing that you don't need something or someone, is to refuse their financial support. I don't see anybody in Serbia doing this. I don't know if that is your position?

gjynypi

pre 15 godina

As an albanian, I like Kostunica better. Suing Western countries at ICJ would have been better for Kosova because, in that case, the Western countries would have done more to get a favorable ruling. Now, they do not care much because they are not directly on the dock. Ruling the declaration of independence 'illegal' is not the same as ruling the recognitions 'illegal'... I agree with those who say that Tadic (and over half of serbia who have voted for him) has effectively recognized Kosova. Sendin back withdrawn ambassadors is just one proof of this. The West is nudging Serbia toward recognitions, just as it has nudged it out of Croatia, Bosnia... and the West has been ALWAYS successful so far.... Serbia has failed both with radical and moderate policies...

ZK UK

pre 15 godina

bganon, what is the ICJ initiative going to change? Even if it comes out in Serbia's favour you'll have the US & Co simply saying they disagree with it and nothing changes but you'll get a boost for Tadic & Co with all of these Serbians applauding him. Building up Tadic is in the interests of the West and making him look like the protector of Kosovo without actually achieving much will work in the interests of both Tadic and the West, so why wouldn't they support it? At least Koštunica's case would have had some venom in it.

Also, the way I see it is that the EU/US want control of the Balkans and without it they will miss a big piece of the jigsaw puzzle, however, I'm sure our friends in the East will have a nice place to put that piece. In that case Serbia should be treated with a little more respect otherwise the West will see who needs whom more. It is a little premature to talk about this right now but I'm sure it will become more apparent as the geopolitical situation changes.

Note that when it comes to economical ties, I have no problems with Serbia building this up where our interests lie but I don't believe we should have strong political ties to those nations attempting to rip Serbia apart. It just doesn't make sense to me.

Steve P

pre 15 godina

Good. Kostunica should sue to get the most money allowed by law against all those countries recognizing Kosovo's independence.

ZK UK

pre 15 godina

Jovan, yes it will give us the moral and legal high ground but it is unlikely to change anything. Giving NATO the boot is the only way we can make our land free again and the way things are going they may just leave on their own.

Yes Ataman, they are crooks supporting thieves against the will of their citizens.

bganon

pre 15 godina

'bganon, what is the ICJ initiative going to change?'.

I'm sure you know my opinion about it, I've mentioned it often enough in the last few days. Its not about getting the west to change its mind, its about bringing the Albanians to the negotiating table. Probably you agree with me that the likelyhood is that Kosovo will be divided. What the ICJ judgment will be about is to get both sides to accept that they cannot get what they want, that a true compromise is the only solution. I realise that some feel stronger than me about wanting to retain Kosovo within Serbia at all costs but I feel its important to be realistic. The only realistic way forward is a historic agreement between Serbs and Albanians. No, it will never be milk and honey, but surely there can be peace. Surely we can create conditions for example for Serbs to return to the north of Kosovo? Surely the Albanians want to truly believe that the Serbian army will not return and need that guarantee. And surely the Albanians and Kosovo Serbs know that whilst this land is disputed Kosovo doesn't stand a snowball in hells chance of surviving as a viable state.

Both sides need to reach agreement and the case needs to be made for this in my opinion - for the sake of all.

If the ICJ inititative is all part of a Tadic PR campaign then fine - oppose it! Are you really so cynical that you can't see the wood from the trees?

You ask why wouldn't the west support Serbia's ICJ initiative? And you give reasons. My answer then is how come they don't support it? Its all very well to create an argument and the reasons why that argument stands but when the argument doesn't stand in the first place all the speculation is redundant. Clearly they are against the ICJ initiative and are trying every trick in the book to defeat the Serbian initiative.

What is so good about venom ZK? Does it make you feel better? Frankly who cares how it makes you or I feel? Results results results. Nothing else matters.

Unlike you I don't see a huge change in the geo-political situation. I don't see that Russia will ever go out on a limb for Serbia. We only get moderate benefit from the external situation and if we play it wrongly we can get screwed twice over if we are not careful. It takes a thinker rather than a table (or people) basher or spiteful legalist to get the best deal.

I think we should have strong economic and political ties with all countries that benefit Serbia. I don't believe there is such thing as having strong economic ties with a country without having strong political ties. One comes with the other and helps the other to benefit. If Serbian exports are to increase, if Serbian unemployment is to decrease, if Serbian businesses are to progress and the state to become richer we must have strong political and economic ties with our partners including countries like Russia, Italy, Germany who are very important trading partners. Under this government I think we are in a position to benefit the country much more than the other lot. I still rub my face sometimes as that potential disaster was a close shave.

Jovan

pre 15 godina

true words, ZK UK.

but I think that even the ICJ initiative is a tool for Serbia.

given that the initiative, if there is not something odd there, can only result in a positive ruling for Serbia, there is no reason not to do it.

afterwards, any other "recognition" will be against the law, and I mean, CLEARLY, against.

numerous of those who have committed that shameful act, will have to answer WHY they are acting against international law.

time works for Serbia, and therefore, let´s just see what future brings!

pleurat

pre 15 godina

Kostunica is wright.Serbia should start lawsuits against the countries that have recognised independent Kosovo,and a lawsuit against Kosovo becouse it has a very good case.We all know about the aggresion and conspiracy against the Serbs.I think the Serbian army should bring forward a lawsuit against the Slovenes,Croats,Bosnians and Albanians. Serbs are the victims of western propaganda.

bganon

pre 15 godina

Peggy I reject any linkage between EU membership and Kosovo, thats always been my position.

There are some in the EU and some in Serbia that create this linkage for their own political reasons but the fact is they will not be able to ask for this for as long as current EU states do not recognise Kosovo. They can hardly set a condition for membership if their own members don't abide by it. That is a double standard too far, even in this day and age of lack of universal principles.

But EU - Kosovo linkage cannot be ruled out, if those EU countries change their mind - thats why it is sensible to get a move on with EU integration, not to constantly drag our heels, as certain Serbian politicians are so brilliant at doing.

The US does not have to reverse its decision to recognise Kosovo independence to support real negotiations. It might be a long shot but this case might be a chance for the new Obama team to show how they respect international legal institutions and will go it alone less than they did in recent history.

Besides lets see how Kosovo Albanians view things after a court verdict, if it goes ahead. Events have a way of unfolding unexpectedly.

It might be a stretch to think that the ICJ can help solve the Kosovo issue, but at this point its the best chance both sides have - even if neither realises it.

cees

pre 15 godina

the question is to which court to send these lawsuits. I like the position of Kostunica, because it makes the position of Serbia clearer than the hypocritical way of the government and at the other hand of the EU. Both sides are trying not to hurt each-other by making a stinking mass out of it. EU should say loud and clear: "If Serbia want to join the EU, they have to except Kosova's independence", like Kostunica is demanding.
At the moment we have the situation of puting pressure on countries, which until now didn't make a decision on Kosova's UID, because this government realizes that outside the EU, Serbia will be outside the Balkans EU-unity. Both sides must make up their minds and show their clear positions!!

fas

pre 15 godina

We can expect the ailing and bancrupt empire and their Euro vasalls to hang on to Camp Bondsteel (Kosovo, sorry) whith whatever they got left.

Especially after the brilliant Russian Check mate in the Caucasus. Serbs will again serve as pawns to suffer in the anglo-american game with even more land grabs, or maybe not.

If any time is right for the pro-serbian forces against the anti-serbians of the current regime, that time is now. The new soviet of €U and Poland and the balts seems to have learnd the hard way that NATO is just a paper tiger far away from balkans-99, maybe capable to slaughter Afghan tribes man but not countries with a fair chance to fight back, it´s time for Serbs to learn that too.

Ataman

pre 15 godina

I don't believe we should have strong political ties to those nations attempting to rip Serbia apart. It just doesn't make sense to me.
(ZK UK, 27 September 2008 17:32)

"Nation" or government? I am not aware of a single nation (OK, maybe one but it still a question) which is attempting to rip Serbia apart. Otherwise there are bunch of crooks in government(s) of some "Western" countries and their lapdogs in governments of other "Western" countries.

And as for ties to nations... the sad truth is: Serbs are much closer to Germans than to Russians. Want a proof? Pull out a Russian passport and try to cross a Serbian border. And be ready for surprise if you do not have a Serbian hotel vaucher or an ORIGINAL of an invitation from your Serbian friends.

Same is true in the other direction.

Compare it with a situation on Serbian border for holders of German passport.

Also (isn't it amazing?) it is relatively easy for Serbs to get a multiple-entry 10-year USA visa. There are more Serbs on daily Virgin Atlantic + JAT combined flights to San Francisco than on the daily train to Moscow.

I tried both...

Peggy

pre 15 godina

Bganon, I agree with you on that Serbs and Albanians need to go back to the negotiating table and seriously negotiate.

But, you know as well as I do that Albanians WILL NOT negotiate. They had a chance to do that and only stuck to their independence solution. They have no reason to negotiate for as long as America is in their corner.

How is getting a positive ICJ ruling going to inspire them to negotiate when America will simply ignore that ruling and carry on as if nothing has happened?

We know for a fact that nothing short of America reversing their decision will bring the Albanians back to negotiations, so why even hope for it.

Please don't take this as trying to be smart but I would like to know the answer to one question.
If the only way for Serbia to join the EU is to recognize Kosovo, would you support that? I feel that you want Serbia to join the EU at any cost but I could be wrong.

Peggy

pre 15 godina

Bganon, you are certainly more of an optimist than I am, especially when I see who is on Obama's team.

The noises coming from some EU representatives do give the impression that EU entry and Kosovo are likely to be linked. I hope not, but it is starting to look like that.

Serbia cannot enter the EU any time soon as more and more conditions are being put on it and the Irish have derailed that for the time being anyway. It is not up to Serbia how soon they enter the EU or even if they enter so trying to speed things up from this end is useless.
I agree with you that there have to be serious negotiations taking place but seeing who is on Obama's team and McCain is very pro independence, America is not going to change it's mind at all.
We have to do with what we are given and Serbia is not given very much at all.

Jovan

pre 15 godina

well, I am strictly against any partition of serbian territory, and I do not think that is not "realistic"...

times are changing, and the US will have to make up their minds, whether they want to support a non-democratic mafia-infested bunch who do not even care for their own families, but succsessfully make the K-albanians believe that they are acting in their interests...

what an absurdity...

no, the only thing Serbia needs is to stay on the road, and follow it right to the end.

time is on our side, not to mention moral, justice and history.

let´s just wait a little bit, the US-economy has lost a lot of it´s strenght... the average american citizen cannot trust in the continuity of american banks...and that is some rather good development, in regard to the aggressive policies the US are exercising in the balkans...

Serbia´s time is still to come.

and all those cynical comments by our dear albanian friends, are in reality only showing their true feelings...

desperation.

don´t worry, dear K-albanians. Serbia will prevail, and you will profit of it.

Steve P

pre 15 godina

Serbia should sue the Muslim government of Kosovo and use some of the money to rebuild the destroyed churches and monasteries in Kosovo.

gjynypi

pre 15 godina

As an albanian, I like Kostunica better. Suing Western countries at ICJ would have been better for Kosova because, in that case, the Western countries would have done more to get a favorable ruling. Now, they do not care much because they are not directly on the dock. Ruling the declaration of independence 'illegal' is not the same as ruling the recognitions 'illegal'... I agree with those who say that Tadic (and over half of serbia who have voted for him) has effectively recognized Kosova. Sendin back withdrawn ambassadors is just one proof of this. The West is nudging Serbia toward recognitions, just as it has nudged it out of Croatia, Bosnia... and the West has been ALWAYS successful so far.... Serbia has failed both with radical and moderate policies...

ZK UK

pre 15 godina

I couldn't agree more here with Koštunica. The lawsuits should have started from the very beginning and it was Tadic who prevented them - presumably to not upset his Western partners who are attempting to rip Serbia apart.

For that reason I do not trust the DS or this ICJ initiative. I suspect it is all being orchestrated by the West even though they are publicly objecting to it.

The bankrupt states of the Euro/Atlantic alliance need Serbia more than we need them. Who controls Serbia controls the Balkans and as far as I'm concerned the West has already burnt their bridges.

bganon

pre 15 godina

Well Kostunica is back then? Lawsuits are good?
Are they though, lawyers in EU countries say that pressing charges has little chance of success. If there is no chance of success then its pointless in my opinion.

I am not into doing something for the sake of doing it, or to show anger or displeasure. The reason for doing something is to get results, not to try to poke somebody in the eye.

In line with these policies why doesn't Kostunica explain to us how closing western embassies and re-calling Serbian ambassadors would help with the diplomatic initiative on Kosovo? I'd be fascinated to know how this would help Serbia.

Politics driven by results are important, not driven by the desire to spite other countries.

ZK I can't imagine how the west on the one hand is desperately trying to stop Serbia at the ICJ and on the other wants it to go to court. That doesn't make any sense.

And this 'they need us more than we need them', if that is true then why do we hear this repeated ad nauseum? Surely those who have no need for 'them' have no need to talk about 'them'?

In the end we will see just how much Serbians believe they need the EU. A good start to showing that you don't need something or someone, is to refuse their financial support. I don't see anybody in Serbia doing this. I don't know if that is your position?

cees

pre 15 godina

the question is to which court to send these lawsuits. I like the position of Kostunica, because it makes the position of Serbia clearer than the hypocritical way of the government and at the other hand of the EU. Both sides are trying not to hurt each-other by making a stinking mass out of it. EU should say loud and clear: "If Serbia want to join the EU, they have to except Kosova's independence", like Kostunica is demanding.
At the moment we have the situation of puting pressure on countries, which until now didn't make a decision on Kosova's UID, because this government realizes that outside the EU, Serbia will be outside the Balkans EU-unity. Both sides must make up their minds and show their clear positions!!

bmrusila

pre 15 godina

Wise man speaks wisely. He is absolutely right when talking about direct passing the lawsuits against the countries that have recognised Kosovo UDI. That would have made more sense.

It would be more effective since the international law in Kosovo case was brutally violated and the International court could not ignore that fact. Therefore, there would be no other way for the Court than to rule lawsuits out in favour for Serbia finding those countries guilty and charging them with millions (if not billions) of Euros as compensation.
After that, each country would rethink its decision, and surely, many would revoke its recognition while the process of further recognitions would have stopped for good.

ZK UK

pre 15 godina

bganon, what is the ICJ initiative going to change? Even if it comes out in Serbia's favour you'll have the US & Co simply saying they disagree with it and nothing changes but you'll get a boost for Tadic & Co with all of these Serbians applauding him. Building up Tadic is in the interests of the West and making him look like the protector of Kosovo without actually achieving much will work in the interests of both Tadic and the West, so why wouldn't they support it? At least Koštunica's case would have had some venom in it.

Also, the way I see it is that the EU/US want control of the Balkans and without it they will miss a big piece of the jigsaw puzzle, however, I'm sure our friends in the East will have a nice place to put that piece. In that case Serbia should be treated with a little more respect otherwise the West will see who needs whom more. It is a little premature to talk about this right now but I'm sure it will become more apparent as the geopolitical situation changes.

Note that when it comes to economical ties, I have no problems with Serbia building this up where our interests lie but I don't believe we should have strong political ties to those nations attempting to rip Serbia apart. It just doesn't make sense to me.

fas

pre 15 godina

We can expect the ailing and bancrupt empire and their Euro vasalls to hang on to Camp Bondsteel (Kosovo, sorry) whith whatever they got left.

Especially after the brilliant Russian Check mate in the Caucasus. Serbs will again serve as pawns to suffer in the anglo-american game with even more land grabs, or maybe not.

If any time is right for the pro-serbian forces against the anti-serbians of the current regime, that time is now. The new soviet of €U and Poland and the balts seems to have learnd the hard way that NATO is just a paper tiger far away from balkans-99, maybe capable to slaughter Afghan tribes man but not countries with a fair chance to fight back, it´s time for Serbs to learn that too.

pleurat

pre 15 godina

Kostunica is wright.Serbia should start lawsuits against the countries that have recognised independent Kosovo,and a lawsuit against Kosovo becouse it has a very good case.We all know about the aggresion and conspiracy against the Serbs.I think the Serbian army should bring forward a lawsuit against the Slovenes,Croats,Bosnians and Albanians. Serbs are the victims of western propaganda.

ZK UK

pre 15 godina

Jovan, yes it will give us the moral and legal high ground but it is unlikely to change anything. Giving NATO the boot is the only way we can make our land free again and the way things are going they may just leave on their own.

Yes Ataman, they are crooks supporting thieves against the will of their citizens.

Steve P

pre 15 godina

Serbia should sue the Muslim government of Kosovo and use some of the money to rebuild the destroyed churches and monasteries in Kosovo.

Jovan

pre 15 godina

true words, ZK UK.

but I think that even the ICJ initiative is a tool for Serbia.

given that the initiative, if there is not something odd there, can only result in a positive ruling for Serbia, there is no reason not to do it.

afterwards, any other "recognition" will be against the law, and I mean, CLEARLY, against.

numerous of those who have committed that shameful act, will have to answer WHY they are acting against international law.

time works for Serbia, and therefore, let´s just see what future brings!

Steve P

pre 15 godina

Good. Kostunica should sue to get the most money allowed by law against all those countries recognizing Kosovo's independence.

Ataman

pre 15 godina

I don't believe we should have strong political ties to those nations attempting to rip Serbia apart. It just doesn't make sense to me.
(ZK UK, 27 September 2008 17:32)

"Nation" or government? I am not aware of a single nation (OK, maybe one but it still a question) which is attempting to rip Serbia apart. Otherwise there are bunch of crooks in government(s) of some "Western" countries and their lapdogs in governments of other "Western" countries.

And as for ties to nations... the sad truth is: Serbs are much closer to Germans than to Russians. Want a proof? Pull out a Russian passport and try to cross a Serbian border. And be ready for surprise if you do not have a Serbian hotel vaucher or an ORIGINAL of an invitation from your Serbian friends.

Same is true in the other direction.

Compare it with a situation on Serbian border for holders of German passport.

Also (isn't it amazing?) it is relatively easy for Serbs to get a multiple-entry 10-year USA visa. There are more Serbs on daily Virgin Atlantic + JAT combined flights to San Francisco than on the daily train to Moscow.

I tried both...

bganon

pre 15 godina

'bganon, what is the ICJ initiative going to change?'.

I'm sure you know my opinion about it, I've mentioned it often enough in the last few days. Its not about getting the west to change its mind, its about bringing the Albanians to the negotiating table. Probably you agree with me that the likelyhood is that Kosovo will be divided. What the ICJ judgment will be about is to get both sides to accept that they cannot get what they want, that a true compromise is the only solution. I realise that some feel stronger than me about wanting to retain Kosovo within Serbia at all costs but I feel its important to be realistic. The only realistic way forward is a historic agreement between Serbs and Albanians. No, it will never be milk and honey, but surely there can be peace. Surely we can create conditions for example for Serbs to return to the north of Kosovo? Surely the Albanians want to truly believe that the Serbian army will not return and need that guarantee. And surely the Albanians and Kosovo Serbs know that whilst this land is disputed Kosovo doesn't stand a snowball in hells chance of surviving as a viable state.

Both sides need to reach agreement and the case needs to be made for this in my opinion - for the sake of all.

If the ICJ inititative is all part of a Tadic PR campaign then fine - oppose it! Are you really so cynical that you can't see the wood from the trees?

You ask why wouldn't the west support Serbia's ICJ initiative? And you give reasons. My answer then is how come they don't support it? Its all very well to create an argument and the reasons why that argument stands but when the argument doesn't stand in the first place all the speculation is redundant. Clearly they are against the ICJ initiative and are trying every trick in the book to defeat the Serbian initiative.

What is so good about venom ZK? Does it make you feel better? Frankly who cares how it makes you or I feel? Results results results. Nothing else matters.

Unlike you I don't see a huge change in the geo-political situation. I don't see that Russia will ever go out on a limb for Serbia. We only get moderate benefit from the external situation and if we play it wrongly we can get screwed twice over if we are not careful. It takes a thinker rather than a table (or people) basher or spiteful legalist to get the best deal.

I think we should have strong economic and political ties with all countries that benefit Serbia. I don't believe there is such thing as having strong economic ties with a country without having strong political ties. One comes with the other and helps the other to benefit. If Serbian exports are to increase, if Serbian unemployment is to decrease, if Serbian businesses are to progress and the state to become richer we must have strong political and economic ties with our partners including countries like Russia, Italy, Germany who are very important trading partners. Under this government I think we are in a position to benefit the country much more than the other lot. I still rub my face sometimes as that potential disaster was a close shave.

Peggy

pre 15 godina

Bganon, I agree with you on that Serbs and Albanians need to go back to the negotiating table and seriously negotiate.

But, you know as well as I do that Albanians WILL NOT negotiate. They had a chance to do that and only stuck to their independence solution. They have no reason to negotiate for as long as America is in their corner.

How is getting a positive ICJ ruling going to inspire them to negotiate when America will simply ignore that ruling and carry on as if nothing has happened?

We know for a fact that nothing short of America reversing their decision will bring the Albanians back to negotiations, so why even hope for it.

Please don't take this as trying to be smart but I would like to know the answer to one question.
If the only way for Serbia to join the EU is to recognize Kosovo, would you support that? I feel that you want Serbia to join the EU at any cost but I could be wrong.

bganon

pre 15 godina

Peggy I reject any linkage between EU membership and Kosovo, thats always been my position.

There are some in the EU and some in Serbia that create this linkage for their own political reasons but the fact is they will not be able to ask for this for as long as current EU states do not recognise Kosovo. They can hardly set a condition for membership if their own members don't abide by it. That is a double standard too far, even in this day and age of lack of universal principles.

But EU - Kosovo linkage cannot be ruled out, if those EU countries change their mind - thats why it is sensible to get a move on with EU integration, not to constantly drag our heels, as certain Serbian politicians are so brilliant at doing.

The US does not have to reverse its decision to recognise Kosovo independence to support real negotiations. It might be a long shot but this case might be a chance for the new Obama team to show how they respect international legal institutions and will go it alone less than they did in recent history.

Besides lets see how Kosovo Albanians view things after a court verdict, if it goes ahead. Events have a way of unfolding unexpectedly.

It might be a stretch to think that the ICJ can help solve the Kosovo issue, but at this point its the best chance both sides have - even if neither realises it.

Peggy

pre 15 godina

Bganon, you are certainly more of an optimist than I am, especially when I see who is on Obama's team.

The noises coming from some EU representatives do give the impression that EU entry and Kosovo are likely to be linked. I hope not, but it is starting to look like that.

Serbia cannot enter the EU any time soon as more and more conditions are being put on it and the Irish have derailed that for the time being anyway. It is not up to Serbia how soon they enter the EU or even if they enter so trying to speed things up from this end is useless.
I agree with you that there have to be serious negotiations taking place but seeing who is on Obama's team and McCain is very pro independence, America is not going to change it's mind at all.
We have to do with what we are given and Serbia is not given very much at all.

Jovan

pre 15 godina

well, I am strictly against any partition of serbian territory, and I do not think that is not "realistic"...

times are changing, and the US will have to make up their minds, whether they want to support a non-democratic mafia-infested bunch who do not even care for their own families, but succsessfully make the K-albanians believe that they are acting in their interests...

what an absurdity...

no, the only thing Serbia needs is to stay on the road, and follow it right to the end.

time is on our side, not to mention moral, justice and history.

let´s just wait a little bit, the US-economy has lost a lot of it´s strenght... the average american citizen cannot trust in the continuity of american banks...and that is some rather good development, in regard to the aggressive policies the US are exercising in the balkans...

Serbia´s time is still to come.

and all those cynical comments by our dear albanian friends, are in reality only showing their true feelings...

desperation.

don´t worry, dear K-albanians. Serbia will prevail, and you will profit of it.