Negotiator: Priština was "given everything"

It's best if the Kosovo Serbs just ignore Stefanovic completely. He will do his best to sell them out before Dec. 9'th, that is his mandate from Berlin.
Just bypass the sellouts in Belgrade and take to the streets, like they have been doing, it's a strategy that works. And despite the lies and propoganda of Tadic, Russia DOES care about Kosovo, in fact it cares much more than the current Serbian government and Konuzin has basicaly said this. You see, the Russian government was not installed by the West, the way this current Serbian government was. Russia wants a strong and prosperous Serbia, which means a strong and prosperous ally for Russia in the middle of Europe, setting a great example for all those other smaller countries on how to be free and independent from NATO and the EU and be very prosperous at the same time. This is what the Fourth Reich and the NATO war criminals are most afraid of.
Cheers!!

Well I agree with much of what Stefanovic writes here. And I suspect he is writing what he believes to be the truth on this - which is rare for a politician.

Its obvious that Serbia is not going to get what it wants on Kosovo, its obvious that Kos Albanians populate and control the vast majority of the territory today. Its obvious that Kos Albanians still have the support of the powerful countries that 'decide' policy on Kosovo.

I would also say that neither China nor Russia has made Kosovo one of its foreign policy priorities. Belgrade realises this and therefore won't be able to maintain its current position forever. Let me also add that it is a fact that China (see any financial publications such as The Economist) economically will overtake the US in a decade. Its also a fact that Russia will increase in power over the next decade. However, China, far off in Asia will not decide global Kosovo policy and it is doubtful that Russia will make Kosovo a priority.

What I am saying here is that there is not much benefit in waiting for China and Russia. From a Serbian perspective the best opportunity remains for Kos Albanians to lose patience with lack of progress and turn against the internationals who in then will reduce (but not stop) support for Kosovo Albanians.

I just wish that we could have fair negotiations that could help give peace and prosperity to all the people in Kosovo.

Upssss you don't like 1244 anymore????

Well UNMIK transfered to Prishtina all competences as that is what 1244 says. Among those competences that UNMIK transfered to Prishitna are the customs. And this was done in 2005/6, years before the independence declaration.

It is obvious that Serbia has huge problems with 1244. Serbia never liked 1244. Serbia started to support 1244 in mid 2005 when Kostunica facing the reality that is doesn't have anything better than 1244 started to spread the old Serbian demagogy that 1244 is the divine prophecy that Kosovo je Serbija.

Alas the reality back fired Serbs again. It happened in most spectacular way and in most painful way for Serbia: ICJ rule that declaration of independence does not violate the 1244.

You see everything was done in line with 1244:
- UNMIK transfered all competences to Prishtina in line with 1244;
- Prishtina declared her independence in line with 1244.

This story is still debated for only one and very simple reason: the universal supporter of world's dictators is permanent member of UN Sec Council i.e. Russia.

If the Albanians where Peacefull an Juste,
Only Wishing for the Freedom of the Albanians as they Claim,
they would themselve have split Kosovo in Two,
at the Aproximate Etnical lines,
and there would have been no Problem.

But They are not so,
They want the whole of Kosovo at the Expence of The Serbian People,
therefoe will this Conflict only be solved by War.

Arn.Sweden,

@ Zoran!
I rembember Kustunica was in power when Kosova become independent and was recognised by 50 countries,while when Tadic was in power we got 20-25 recognisions.
As an albanians I wish Kustunica and nationalists win the election, so EU or USA can not have an excuse to dream about europian Serbia anymore, and it will be over the Kosova issue by being recognised by the last 5 loners in EU and member of UN.
We as albanians will have more support with Kushunica in power than with Tadic.
And please speare me about the strength of the east or more then authonomy and less independence,from your comments.

SJ, with all due respect, listen to pss. You'll save yourself many hours of repetitive posting over the coming years. You'll also clear up a lot of mental real estate to think about things that more immediately impact your daily life in Malaysia.

Yeah, we're going broke in America -- you're right about that. However, apart from giving you some sense of satisfaction in your deep hatred of Americans, our financial woes will do little to return Kosovo to Serbia.

Pristina is not given much. They are not happy because Presevo valley is not yet within their borders. Serbs should get Russian citizenship and move silently where they came from (back to Siberia) so that the remaining citizens in the Balkans stay at peace.

(sj, 14 November 2011 13:35)
You are so obsessed with the financial downfall of the west you cannot comprehend reality. First UNMIK and EULEX have not "suddenly" turned over everything to Pristina. That happened with the downsizing of UNMIK in 2008 per mandate of 1244. Once Pristina institutions were formed it was UNMIK's duty to turn over authorities. It just has taken this long for the Pristina govt to be able to actually take actions in the north. Something UNMIK should have accomplished before.
What he is saying is that Kosovo and Serbia are in the EU, bankrupt or not, it will remain a power maybe not as much. Neither China nor Russia has a huge desire to attempt to change the world order in the balkans. Should either have aspirations to do so they would pick something that would be more beneficial to themselves.
What would their interventions in Kosovo-Serbia gain them? Gratitude from the Serbian people, that and 50 cents will get you a cup of coffee in some parts of the world.
Using common sense and not Serbian pride, who do you think Russia would see as a stronger partner in Europe, Serbia or Germany or France or Italy. Lets face even bankrupt Italy has more to offer than Serbia.
Russia has all it needs from Serbia control over its energy sector and a secrued route for its pipeline which is going to pour millions into Russia and pennies (or the equivalent in dinar) into Serbia. Your so called Russian base is more there to manage security for the pipeline and not for Kosovo. Should Serbia have a change of heart which is most likely Russia will need to protect their investment.
Russia and China can continue their rhetoric and they can block anything they want in the UNSC. Whether they have the power today or tommorrow to do more to change things in the balkans the fact is they do not have that desire. It would create more headaches than leaving it alone.
Finally, revel in the financial woes of the west if you will but in the end it is just going to cause a lot of grief for billions of people and it will do nothing beneficial for your dear Serbia.

The question remains why UNMIK transferred all jurisdictions over to Priština so that now they can do whatever they like with IDs and license plates, he wondered.
--
This is the reason why Stefanovic and the sell-outs are losing control and becoming very unpopular. UNMIK may have attempted to hand over jurisdiction to Pristina but it couldn't. Now the West are using the sell-outs to try and hand over the remaining parts but they've been found out and their strings have been cut.

Stefanovic can negotiate whatever he wants but he doesn't have the power to enforce it anymore. Besides, we know the DS has to sell KiM to get EU endorsement for the next elections. The DS are blind mice without Kostunica so it's time for them to step aside and allow the more knowledgeable to take over.

I have never heard of a senior negotiator resorting to his social website to get his message across.
Borislav be honest and admit what is actually is going on. The Tadic government cannot convince the general public of what they are doing in Kosovo so now you’re trying it on via your face book.
“The question remains why UNMIK transferred all jurisdictions over to Priština so that now they can do whatever they like with IDs and license plates, he wondered”
Now for 12 years there was no progress in Kosovo, but all of a sudden UMNIK and EULUX and whoever gave Pristina everything – who do you think you are fooling? It’s you and Tadic that tried to give Pristina everything and no one else.
Even that clown of a Prime Minister Cvetkovic dared to make threats against the Serbs in Kosovo in that if Belgrade passed the agreement between them and Pristina then they would arrest all the Serbs who complained.
What we have here is a sellout attempt because December 9 is very close and the EU sold gold goodies are on the table so talks must be fianlsied otherwise no money for Boris and his friends.
Anyone who believe this prime BS deserves to be fooled. As I have said for 12 years no progress and that was during the height of US but now as the west is crumbling Tadic has to give in.
Here is something you might use Borislav – NO!!!! try that for a change and get off yoptr knees and hands as they think you are a dog, but its people who stand on their own two feet and stand their ground that they respect as humans.
Italy is gone now it France and I can tell you that Honk Kong has already downgraded France’s rating. The UK is very close t

Well I agree with much of what Stefanovic writes here. And I suspect he is writing what he believes to be the truth on this - which is rare for a politician.

Its obvious that Serbia is not going to get what it wants on Kosovo, its obvious that Kos Albanians populate and control the vast majority of the territory today. Its obvious that Kos Albanians still have the support of the powerful countries that 'decide' policy on Kosovo.

I would also say that neither China nor Russia has made Kosovo one of its foreign policy priorities. Belgrade realises this and therefore won't be able to maintain its current position forever. Let me also add that it is a fact that China (see any financial publications such as The Economist) economically will overtake the US in a decade. Its also a fact that Russia will increase in power over the next decade. However, China, far off in Asia will not decide global Kosovo policy and it is doubtful that Russia will make Kosovo a priority.

What I am saying here is that there is not much benefit in waiting for China and Russia. From a Serbian perspective the best opportunity remains for Kos Albanians to lose patience with lack of progress and turn against the internationals who in then will reduce (but not stop) support for Kosovo Albanians.

I just wish that we could have fair negotiations that could help give peace and prosperity to all the people in Kosovo.
(bganon, 14 November 2011 14:10)

Very well written but wishful thinking about Kosovo Albanians getting fed up with internationals. On the other hand much more likely that Serbs in north will get fed up of staying outside and pack up go inside or go to Serbia.

Everyone knows here that Serbs stay in kosovo due to subsidies Serbia gives them take that off and border control (so no more black Market, I mean no more black market in Serbian hands there will be still from Albanians) they will leave just 40K Serbs there trust me its not so many, and when they find out that they need to pack and go home they can eassy loos it shoot some KFOR.

Serbs have huge population issue they will give 1200Euros for any child born till Dec 2013 half of central Serbia is empty.

Dragane ! - Bog ti Pogomo !.

Arn/Orao Sweden/Svetska.

UNMIK has not given all power to Pristina. This is a misleading statement.

The best thing to do is not follow the EU goal now. We should leave it for later when things are rosy again & government grants & funding are being given freely.

Why would we want to join the EU now when there is so much uncertainty and they are having so many problems that nobody really knows the fate?

I personally think time & money should be invested into other opportunities.

As for Stefanovic, I am finding it hard to believe any politicians right now and even if he is telling the truth I just don't believe it's good enough. Tadic should be increasing our so called 'parallel institutions' so our foot remains in the door and it cannot be shut.

Kosovo's independence will not be recognised & they will never be a full member state of the UN.

Kosovo will again be under the sovereignty of Serbia & the Albanians will have a large amount of autonomy in their respective majorities.

Things always fall back into place (equilibrium).

It's only a matter of us Serbs holding out and staying strong together.

Not listening to all this nonsense all these haters are saying. I believe strongly in our race of people. Strong characters, good hearts and dignity.

@ dragan I really enjoyed reading your comment I agree with you 100% poz iz cikago....

A question to hardcore Serb diaspora.

I think that it could not have gotten more hardcore in Belgrade than when Milosevic was in power. What did Milosevic (the hardcore-st of all) bring to Serbia other than destruction, humiliation, and poverty. I am not really looking for "everyone else was out to get Serbia" but a simple comparison pre- and post- Milosevic Serbia.

Peggy if you know anything about history and international relations you wouldn't be asking that question.

Spheres of influence above all. The US has had troops stationed in Europe since WW2. All of western Europe was under US influence post WW2. The iron curtain divided Soviet and American sphere of influence in Europe and Jugoslavija was considered to be neutral, or after Tito's decisive break with USSR, closer to the US / Western block.

China never has had much influence in Europe, although this will change over the next decade, but that influence will be economic. Chinese political influence in Europe will be limited.

The situation in Australia / US isn't the same as you are comparing one largely Anglo-Saxon culture with another. For example Serbia and China do not have similar origins or language to share. Besides, the three largest trading partners of Austalia are all relatively closeby - China, Japan and Singapore with South Korea pushing in as well. You must realise that geography plays a major part of economic and political influence, as does stationing of troops etc.

I have to say Peggy that your words have the sound of wishing to them rather than that of reality. What interest is it of the Russian government to make Serbia a foreign policy priority? What does Russia get in return? You think they will do it for free?

I'll make you a deal, if Nikolic gets into power and Russia actively defends Kosovo reversing Kosovo independence then I will not only eat my hat, I'll eat my shirt as well.
Frankly I think there is more chance of the US announcing that we are not alone in the universe.

Are two possibilities to rule one country.1) Dictatorial 2) Democratic. I’ll let the first option apart, cause in the world we live today is universally unacceptable a Dictatorial system especially in the heart of Europe. Do you Serb think that you can rule democratically a region inhabited 90% by KAlbanians. The Milosevic regime will hurt them at least for two other generations. So really I don’t believe that the purpose why Serb insists so much for Kosova is not Kosova. Anyway this is not fair by you, because you are using another time Kosova, hurting another time the people of Kosova. We Albanians say “Who prepares the hole for the other fall by self within it”.

Arn.Sweden,
(Arn.,Sweden., 14 November 2011 12:59)
Did you just pick up a newspaper a couple of weeks ago and find out there was a conflict in the balkans?? Your post makes it seem so.
As a province of Serbia or FRY or whoever, Kosovo north and south was all Kosovo. The disconnection came with 1244, Rambouillet, Kumanovo, with the lines drawn.
Up until now Serbia has never been willing to discuss in any form all of Kosovo not remaining in Serbia. When the idea of partition was first circulated years ago, it was rejected by all parties and EVERYONE refused to discuss such an idea.
The idea is only gaining momentum now because Serb officials are beginning to realize it is their only hope of retaining anything.

So to say if the Albanians would have given up the north to start there would be no problems jsut is not so, and unbelievably a naive statement.
As for now should anytype of agreement to partitiion should gain some realization it is in the Albanians interest to only agree in exchange for full and unconditioned recognition.

(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)

You are so obsessed with the financial downfall of the west you cannot comprehend reality. First UNMIK and EULEX have not "suddenly" turned over everything to Pristina. That happened with the downsizing of UNMIK in 2008 per mandate of 1244.


First of all have you never wondered why your politicians repeat themselves over and over again? It’s because the overage Joe is that dumb or self absorbed that only repeating the message gets through. The average westerner is so brainwashed that you would think the Soviet Union was still around. Look at the 2007 economic crises, it hit people like you like a stack of bricks without warning so the US on the one hand is 15 trilion indebt i.e. 110% of GDP and rising fast – its expected to reach 120 to 125% by this time next year, but all is OK because only the US can do this without consequences.

For every dollar you print or borrow that has to be returned with interest; now how much will that be? this depends on when you stop printing or borrowing and the US is now only printing as no one will buy their bonds. It even tried to create its own market in buying their own bonds through the Caymans/Bahams using dummy companies – it has not worked.

The same economic forecasters that warned against the toxic loans are again warning about this course of economic path in that a country can print/borrow money upto a certain level and if the economy has not kicked started then you have to bite the bullet and review your actions. Once again they are howled down by the same people which were involved in creating this economic crises in the US.
(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)

Instead of reinvesting the dollars China and others get from selling exports to the United States, Barry Anderson Barry Anderson, a former official at the OECD said, "they'll take our money and convert it into goods and services for their own people. They don't have to lend to us if they don't want to”.

This occurred about 6 to 8 months ago. The likes of china are spending big on their own people, hence the printing of money in the US.


(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)

Once Pristina institutions were formed it was UNMIK's duty to turn over authorities. It just has taken this long for the Pristina govt to be able to actually take actions in the north. Something UNMIK should have accomplished before.


It’s always someone else should have accomplished never the brave Albanians. Well let UMNIK and NATO leave and see how long Kosova exists. You people are so full of it I’d need a coal loader to move fetilizer.

(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)

What he is saying is that Kosovo and Serbia are in the EU, bankrupt or not, it will remain a power maybe not as much. Neither China nor Russia has a huge desire to attempt to change the world order in the balkans. Should either have aspirations to do so they would pick something that would be more beneficial to themselves.
What would their interventions in Kosovo-Serbia gain them? Gratitude from the Serbian people, that and 50 cents will get you a cup of coffee in some parts of the world.


The EU is like a mirage in the desert. Its always simmering on the horizon with wealth and happiness for those that join and for a long time that was true, but now its time to pay the orchestra and that is why you have this economic crises.

The EU offers NOTHING now and what Tadic and others want is to be paid for their handy work, but you see it is not going to happen because the small number of Serbs in Kosovo will keep it bubbling along as its Moscow’s desire to keep it a hot spot.

Hate to disappoint you but tadic et al can reach agreement with God but its the Serbs in Kosovo that will scuttle it as its Moscow’s desire.


(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)


Using common sense and not Serbian pride, who do you think Russia would see as a stronger partner in Europe, Serbia or Germany or France or Italy. Lets face even bankrupt Italy has more to offer than Serbia.


OK I’ll agree with that statement if you tell me why do the EU sees the Albanians in Kosovo more important than Serbia considering you are a total liability on the EU budget?

(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)

Russia has all it needs from Serbia control over its energy sector and a secrued route for its pipeline which is going to pour millions into Russia and pennies (or the equivalent in dinar) into Serbia. Your so called Russian base is more there to manage security for the pipeline and not for Kosovo. Should Serbia have a change of heart which is most likely Russia will need to protect their investment.


Why are you so hell bent on convincing me with this stuff when you can go onto an Albanian website and make you countrymen feel good? You obviously see me a nationalist who lives in Serbia but why are you so concerned? If I am wrong then I’m wrong.


(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)


Russia and China can continue their rhetoric and they can block anything they want in the UNSC. Whether they have the power today or tommorrow to do more to change things in the balkans the fact is they do not have that desire. It would create more headaches than leaving it alone.


Why would either spend a cent on confronting a dying empire when it will implode as a result of its own actions. You see the US is like a shark then needs to feed all the time and despite Serbia being on its side in 2 world wars it was attacked. That is because it mantra is yes we know about those times but what have you done for me lately.

You see the Russians have a long and personal relationship with the Serbs and they would go out of their way on certain issues as we share cultural and religious ties, but the US is a pure eating machine that will spit you out once you are of no use.

(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)

Finally, revel in the financial woes of the west if you will but in the end it is just going to cause a lot of grief for billions of people and it will do nothing beneficial for your dear Serbia.

You notice its always “the world will end if the west goes down” syndrome. Where do you get this billions nonsense mate? Do you think that the others have not prepared for this outcome? What the west is the only smart one on this planet?


(Nenad, 14 November 2011 17:11)


As I am a film devotee of the 1940s period, I leave you with just this, learn to say “have you got a dollar for a fellow American”. It will serve you well. Watch and learn as the US is not just going broke, its doing it in supreme style.

Oh I suggest that you read up on Obama’s visit to Australia next week. When you sift all the BS he is there to visit Darwin as that is where the US will station 2000 to 3000 marines and use its facilities to repair and resupply their ships.

In other words the US has been KICKED out of the south China sea and Australia is the last place left for it to go, but they will not be there for too long as in about 2 tears they will even stop using that country.

@ passing by - what are you talking about. you have no say about kosovo let alone presevo bujanovac or medvedja. so stop the b-s garbage your spewing ps mirel from Albania don't worry about srpsko kosovo worry about your corrupt criminal country. Albania....

The problem is the mines are in the north. And the other problem is the River Ibor is to deep to smuggle through.
And by the way there are still serbs being killed in Kosovo.
Where is justice in Kosovo ?

"Very well written but wishful thinking about Kosovo Albanians getting fed up with internationals. On the other hand much more likely that Serbs in north will get fed up of staying outside and pack up go inside or go to Serbia."
(RSA, 14 November 2011 15:25)

You already have the nationalist extremists in Kosovo who call themselves 'self determination movement'. They vandalize EULEX cars and oppose the EU sponsored Belgrade-Pristina-dialogue.

My hope is that the internationals one day soon will get fed up with the crime and corruption within Kosovo, stop the donor money for this corrupt government and EULEX is arresting the responsible politicians and start to establish law and order, starting with murders who can run around freely and the drug mafia which has a nice home to operate in Kosovo.

I love these pictures used to describe these stories. All the DS officials are pictured with the Coat of Arms or the flag behind them...makes them look so patriotic.

Do you Serb think that you can rule democratically a region inhabited 90% by KAlbanians.
(dori tirana, 15 November 2011 09:30)

Do you Albanians think that you can rule democratically a region inhabited 95% by KSerbs?

Why couldn't KSerbs live in Northern Kosovo and Southern enclaves thinking that they live in Serbia, while KAlbanians live in Southern Kosovo thinking they live in independent state Kosovo?

Why did Thaci start all that trouble last summer? Hasn't he got anything else to do?

passsing....didn't you post that same sophmoric quote about 1 week ago?

"China, far off in Asia will not decide global Kosovo policy and it is doubtful that Russia will make Kosovo a priority. "
==================================

What has distance got to do with it? Just ask the US. They are not exactly next door to Serbia and they seem to be doing just fine making decisions.
In a decade or so the US will be paying for Chinese military by way of interest on their loans only. This is a very serious situation so how long will the US be able to dictate anyone's future?
The US is putting more effort into Australia now. Unfortunately there is a base about to go up in Darwin. I wonder what the US is thinking these days? Why is a base need in the Northern Territory? The US cannot possibly afford all the bases and something will have to be let go. Russia needs Serbia and will make it her priority as soon as the current government is gone.

bganon, 15 November 2011 03:13)

This is what you get for an argument all the time – back to the past. This is 2011 and the past is the past and nothing more and nothing less – look at what is playing out now. China wants to liberalise trade with Europe to its advantage and it can do it because they have the money on hand. Russia wants to control Europe and it can live with China’s wishes regarding trade – Russia not only has money in reserves it has what Europe needs to stop it going into the middles ages – energy and lots of it. Libya is turning into a basket case already with Islamists refusing to disarm and some are being funded by Quatar and Al Quida groups.

Now these same idiots are trying to remove Assad. Well it seems that Iran is now abandoning Assad and siding up to the opposition – Islamists.

“The situation in Australia / US isn't the same as you are comparing one largely Anglo-Saxon culture with another”

The only reason the US is in Australia is because the Chinese have kicked the US out of the South China Sea – the last time the US had large numbers o troops in Australia was during WW2 when this was the only place not hostile to it. They are not in Australia by choice by simply cant do anything about it.

“What interest is it of the Russian government to make Serbia a foreign policy priority”

It’s called the South stream pipeline. It does not want its assets to be threatened by western interests and watch as the Serbs in Kosovo derail all thee talks between Belgrade and Pristina and not a finger will be lifted against them.

Nikolic is a first class fool, but he is Moscow’s fool and if you think the Russians are going to allow the Americans to continue with Camp Krusty you are living in lal la land. I’d suggest that you start losing weight in that there will be less material to consume.

Serbs are carrying a heavy load in Kosovo. The interests of the "international community" in Kosovo are strictly sadistic. They represent problems of population explosions that are everywhere which the international religious authorities need to maintain their international dominance. As a spiritually independent people, the Serbian struggle is naturally introspective.

But they have to nothing to lose in taking a broader perspective. Nobody really wants an independent Kosovo run by Albanians. Nobody really wants Albanians controlling borders between Kosovo and the rest of Serbia. This would be a disaster. What are the rest of the borders around Albania like? Even if Serbs were to cede the borders, the Albanians would be running them with the license of and under the watchful gaze of UNMIK and KFOR. Nobody in his right mind is going to let the Albanians control borders that far north all by themselves. And what is the future of such an arrangement? It would be a nightmare. Nobody with any authority in these discussions in the EU is interested in confronting the reality, it is much too fun to twist the arms of the Serbs. For now, anyway.

As an albanians I wish Kustunica and nationalists win the election, so EU or USA can not have an excuse to dream about europian Serbia anymore, and it will be over the Kosova issue by being recognised by the last 5 loners in EU and member of UN.
We as albanians will have more support with Kushunica in power than with Tadic.
(Mirel from Albania, 14 November 2011 18:14)

For the same reasons, why didn't you Albanians vote for a honorable government, without corrupt politicians, without mafia leader, without former war criminals? Why don't you care for human rights being respected, ethnically motivated murders being punished hard, drug mafia being destroyed, election manipulators being removed from politics? Then countries all around the world wouldn't have an excuse not to recognized a corrupt, undemocratic state run by criminals? Think about it.

sj Agreed as I said China will increasingly become an economic force in Europe, there is no doubt about that. The only debate is how long it will take, or possibly whether some political overhaul will take place in China in the short to medium term.

As far as Russia is concerned we already have a number of Russian businessmen buying up European companies, there will be more of that. However, I doubt that the Russian (government) will control Europe, more like certain individuals will become key. That is the same as in Russia, the Russian government doesn't control much, it is indivduals within that government and key oligarchs that run things. By the way until this changes (and there is no sign of that after the Finance Minister's ousting) I don't believe that Russia will fulfil its potential and maximise its growth.

Sj I was not only referring to military force. As you well know a common language and culture help to foster business ties. As Peggy pointed out the US remains an important investor in Australia, although you have explained to her at least one of the major reasons why the US military is present in Australia.

The Southern Stream Pipeline is already secured. Why would Russia change its Kosovo policy for something they already have? All major political parties in Serbia support that pipeline. I don't understand what you mean when you say that the Russians will watch as the Serbs derail the talks and not a finger will be lifted against them (against who, the Russians, Serbia, the Kosovo Serbs???). And who would lift a finger anyway and why?

Apart from that not making much sense on that point, I return to my previous point, what will the Russians do to return Kosovo to Serbia? Some people are suggesting that Russian policy will change if Nikolic gets in. How and for what reason are my questions.

Do you have a prediction on when US troops will leave Kosovo? I mean hell its easy to say they will leave, they will. But if you think it makes you look smart by saying that and not giving any timeframe, well no cigar...

Icj, seriously, you have not addressed one issue properly. All you have done is made some smart arse remarks which only you would think are clever but nothing else.
I am amazed you think you make any sense.

Nikolic is a first class fool, but he is Moscow’s fool and if you think the Russians are going to allow the Americans to continue with Camp Krusty you are living in lal la land. I’d suggest that you start losing weight in that there will be less material to consume.
(sj, 16 November 2011 00:15)
==========================

Agree. That's why the Yanks are looking in different direction now and are setting up a base in Darwin, Australia.
They cannot possibly afford to keep all the bases so some will have to go.
Their priority is keeping China in check somewhat and our radio announcers are even talking about a possibility of some conflict with China in the future.
As Russia gets a stronger hold on the Balkans and the Yanks get too busy with China, Camp Bondsteel with be a memory.

SJ stop with your absurd thinking, you do not know what you are talking about.

Russia being an ally of the Serbs is the biggest myth,they only use countries to benefit for their own ass.

If Russia really wanted to help Serbia, we wouldn't have this problem regarding Kosovo at the moment.

What has distance got to do with it? Just ask the US. They are not exactly next door to Serbia and they seem to be doing just fine making decisions.
(Peggy, 14 November 2011 21:04)

Because they are the US and not China, in case you have not understood it, yet :)
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In a decade or so the US will be paying for Chinese military by way of interest on their loans only.
(Peggy, 14 November 2011 21:04)

Of course, like any borrower pays interest to the lender. That's Finance 101. The borrower borrows money, puts it at work, earns a profit, pockets a portion of the profit and gives a portion to the lender in the form of interest. All parties win, otherwise the transaction will not happen. I don’t get though what that has to do with insignificant things like Kosovo and Serbia ?!
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This is a very serious situation so how long will the US be able to dictate anyone's future?
(Peggy, 14 November 2011 21:04)

US does not dictate anything, even now !
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The US is putting more effort into Australia now. Unfortunately there is a base about to go up in Darwin. I wonder what the US is thinking these days? Why is a base need in the Northern Territory? The US cannot possibly afford all the bases and something will have to be let go.
(Peggy, 14 November 2011 21:04)

We can leave that to US to sort out; I think Kosovo and Serbia have more pressing issues than dealing with what US does in Australia, China in the Moon or NASA in the solar system.
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Russia needs Serbia and will make it her priority as soon as the current government is gone.
(Peggy, 14 November 2011 21:04)

Sure, it wants to exploit Serbia’s assets and then it will make Serbia as much as a priority as with Milosevic’s government when Russia did not hesitate to dump Serbia in 1999. Dear Peggy, I know that for you and some Albanians, the Sun revolves around Kosovo and Serbia, but it does not mean that’s the same for all the world.

Do you Albanians think that you can rule democratically a region inhabited 95% by KSerbs?
(aaayyy, 15 November 2011 15:21)

I don’t think anybody thinks that. Kosovo’s Constitution guarantees that Kosovo regions where Serbs are a majority, can govern their local affairs by themselves. Nobody is going to have Albanians govern the local affairs of those regions.
----------

Why couldn't KSerbs live in Northern Kosovo and Southern enclaves thinking that they live in Serbia, while KAlbanians live in Southern Kosovo thinking they live in independent state Kosovo?
(aaayyy, 15 November 2011 15:21)

Of course they can think they live in Serbia, Europe, Moon, etc… Everybody is free to think whatever he/she wants. Nobody has an issue with that.
----------

Why did Thaci start all that trouble last summer? Hasn't he got anything else to do?
(aaayyy, 15 November 2011 15:21)

I’m not sure what trouble you are speaking about ?! Who was troubled and why ?!

Icj, seriously, you have not addressed one issue properly. All you have done is made some smart arse remarks which only you would think are clever but nothing else.
I am amazed you think you make any sense.
(Peggy, 16 November 2011 10:55)

Thank you Peggy for supporting what I said by not providing any argument against :)

Sj I was not only referring to military force. As you well know a common language and culture help to foster business ties. As Peggy pointed out the US remains an important investor in Australia, although you have explained to her at least one of the major reasons why the US military is present in Australia.
=============================

Thank you, but I don't think I need anyone to explain to me what the Yanks are doing in Australia.
I think we all know that.
They are putting Australia, at least Darwin in great danger. Indonesia is not too happy about the base either.

Upssss you don't like 1244 anymore????

Well UNMIK transfered to Prishtina all competences as that is what 1244 says. Among those competences that UNMIK transfered to Prishitna are the customs. And this was done in 2005/6, years before the independence declaration.

It is obvious that Serbia has huge problems with 1244. Serbia never liked 1244. Serbia started to support 1244 in mid 2005 when Kostunica facing the reality that is doesn't have anything better than 1244 started to spread the old Serbian demagogy that 1244 is the divine prophecy that Kosovo je Serbija.

Alas the reality back fired Serbs again. It happened in most spectacular way and in most painful way for Serbia: ICJ rule that declaration of independence does not violate the 1244.

You see everything was done in line with 1244:
- UNMIK transfered all competences to Prishtina in line with 1244;
- Prishtina declared her independence in line with 1244.

This story is still debated for only one and very simple reason: the universal supporter of world's dictators is permanent member of UN Sec Council i.e. Russia.

If the Albanians where Peacefull an Juste,
Only Wishing for the Freedom of the Albanians as they Claim,
they would themselve have split Kosovo in Two,
at the Aproximate Etnical lines,
and there would have been no Problem.

But They are not so,
They want the whole of Kosovo at the Expence of The Serbian People,
therefoe will this Conflict only be solved by War.

Arn.Sweden,

Pristina is not given much. They are not happy because Presevo valley is not yet within their borders. Serbs should get Russian citizenship and move silently where they came from (back to Siberia) so that the remaining citizens in the Balkans stay at peace.

Well I agree with much of what Stefanovic writes here. And I suspect he is writing what he believes to be the truth on this - which is rare for a politician.

Its obvious that Serbia is not going to get what it wants on Kosovo, its obvious that Kos Albanians populate and control the vast majority of the territory today. Its obvious that Kos Albanians still have the support of the powerful countries that 'decide' policy on Kosovo.

I would also say that neither China nor Russia has made Kosovo one of its foreign policy priorities. Belgrade realises this and therefore won't be able to maintain its current position forever. Let me also add that it is a fact that China (see any financial publications such as The Economist) economically will overtake the US in a decade. Its also a fact that Russia will increase in power over the next decade. However, China, far off in Asia will not decide global Kosovo policy and it is doubtful that Russia will make Kosovo a priority.

What I am saying here is that there is not much benefit in waiting for China and Russia. From a Serbian perspective the best opportunity remains for Kos Albanians to lose patience with lack of progress and turn against the internationals who in then will reduce (but not stop) support for Kosovo Albanians.

I just wish that we could have fair negotiations that could help give peace and prosperity to all the people in Kosovo.

It's best if the Kosovo Serbs just ignore Stefanovic completely. He will do his best to sell them out before Dec. 9'th, that is his mandate from Berlin.
Just bypass the sellouts in Belgrade and take to the streets, like they have been doing, it's a strategy that works. And despite the lies and propoganda of Tadic, Russia DOES care about Kosovo, in fact it cares much more than the current Serbian government and Konuzin has basicaly said this. You see, the Russian government was not installed by the West, the way this current Serbian government was. Russia wants a strong and prosperous Serbia, which means a strong and prosperous ally for Russia in the middle of Europe, setting a great example for all those other smaller countries on how to be free and independent from NATO and the EU and be very prosperous at the same time. This is what the Fourth Reich and the NATO war criminals are most afraid of.
Cheers!!

I have never heard of a senior negotiator resorting to his social website to get his message across.
Borislav be honest and admit what is actually is going on. The Tadic government cannot convince the general public of what they are doing in Kosovo so now you’re trying it on via your face book.
“The question remains why UNMIK transferred all jurisdictions over to Priština so that now they can do whatever they like with IDs and license plates, he wondered”
Now for 12 years there was no progress in Kosovo, but all of a sudden UMNIK and EULUX and whoever gave Pristina everything – who do you think you are fooling? It’s you and Tadic that tried to give Pristina everything and no one else.
Even that clown of a Prime Minister Cvetkovic dared to make threats against the Serbs in Kosovo in that if Belgrade passed the agreement between them and Pristina then they would arrest all the Serbs who complained.
What we have here is a sellout attempt because December 9 is very close and the EU sold gold goodies are on the table so talks must be fianlsied otherwise no money for Boris and his friends.
Anyone who believe this prime BS deserves to be fooled. As I have said for 12 years no progress and that was during the height of US but now as the west is crumbling Tadic has to give in.
Here is something you might use Borislav – NO!!!! try that for a change and get off yoptr knees and hands as they think you are a dog, but its people who stand on their own two feet and stand their ground that they respect as humans.
Italy is gone now it France and I can tell you that Honk Kong has already downgraded France’s rating. The UK is very close t

UNMIK has not given all power to Pristina. This is a misleading statement.

The best thing to do is not follow the EU goal now. We should leave it for later when things are rosy again & government grants & funding are being given freely.

Why would we want to join the EU now when there is so much uncertainty and they are having so many problems that nobody really knows the fate?

I personally think time & money should be invested into other opportunities.

As for Stefanovic, I am finding it hard to believe any politicians right now and even if he is telling the truth I just don't believe it's good enough. Tadic should be increasing our so called 'parallel institutions' so our foot remains in the door and it cannot be shut.

Kosovo's independence will not be recognised & they will never be a full member state of the UN.

Kosovo will again be under the sovereignty of Serbia & the Albanians will have a large amount of autonomy in their respective majorities.

Things always fall back into place (equilibrium).

It's only a matter of us Serbs holding out and staying strong together.

Not listening to all this nonsense all these haters are saying. I believe strongly in our race of people. Strong characters, good hearts and dignity.

@ Zoran!
I rembember Kustunica was in power when Kosova become independent and was recognised by 50 countries,while when Tadic was in power we got 20-25 recognisions.
As an albanians I wish Kustunica and nationalists win the election, so EU or USA can not have an excuse to dream about europian Serbia anymore, and it will be over the Kosova issue by being recognised by the last 5 loners in EU and member of UN.
We as albanians will have more support with Kushunica in power than with Tadic.
And please speare me about the strength of the east or more then authonomy and less independence,from your comments.

SJ, with all due respect, listen to pss. You'll save yourself many hours of repetitive posting over the coming years. You'll also clear up a lot of mental real estate to think about things that more immediately impact your daily life in Malaysia.

Yeah, we're going broke in America -- you're right about that. However, apart from giving you some sense of satisfaction in your deep hatred of Americans, our financial woes will do little to return Kosovo to Serbia.

(sj, 14 November 2011 13:35)
You are so obsessed with the financial downfall of the west you cannot comprehend reality. First UNMIK and EULEX have not "suddenly" turned over everything to Pristina. That happened with the downsizing of UNMIK in 2008 per mandate of 1244. Once Pristina institutions were formed it was UNMIK's duty to turn over authorities. It just has taken this long for the Pristina govt to be able to actually take actions in the north. Something UNMIK should have accomplished before.
What he is saying is that Kosovo and Serbia are in the EU, bankrupt or not, it will remain a power maybe not as much. Neither China nor Russia has a huge desire to attempt to change the world order in the balkans. Should either have aspirations to do so they would pick something that would be more beneficial to themselves.
What would their interventions in Kosovo-Serbia gain them? Gratitude from the Serbian people, that and 50 cents will get you a cup of coffee in some parts of the world.
Using common sense and not Serbian pride, who do you think Russia would see as a stronger partner in Europe, Serbia or Germany or France or Italy. Lets face even bankrupt Italy has more to offer than Serbia.
Russia has all it needs from Serbia control over its energy sector and a secrued route for its pipeline which is going to pour millions into Russia and pennies (or the equivalent in dinar) into Serbia. Your so called Russian base is more there to manage security for the pipeline and not for Kosovo. Should Serbia have a change of heart which is most likely Russia will need to protect their investment.
Russia and China can continue their rhetoric and they can block anything they want in the UNSC. Whether they have the power today or tommorrow to do more to change things in the balkans the fact is they do not have that desire. It would create more headaches than leaving it alone.
Finally, revel in the financial woes of the west if you will but in the end it is just going to cause a lot of grief for billions of people and it will do nothing beneficial for your dear Serbia.

The question remains why UNMIK transferred all jurisdictions over to Priština so that now they can do whatever they like with IDs and license plates, he wondered.
--
This is the reason why Stefanovic and the sell-outs are losing control and becoming very unpopular. UNMIK may have attempted to hand over jurisdiction to Pristina but it couldn't. Now the West are using the sell-outs to try and hand over the remaining parts but they've been found out and their strings have been cut.

Stefanovic can negotiate whatever he wants but he doesn't have the power to enforce it anymore. Besides, we know the DS has to sell KiM to get EU endorsement for the next elections. The DS are blind mice without Kostunica so it's time for them to step aside and allow the more knowledgeable to take over.

(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)

You are so obsessed with the financial downfall of the west you cannot comprehend reality. First UNMIK and EULEX have not "suddenly" turned over everything to Pristina. That happened with the downsizing of UNMIK in 2008 per mandate of 1244.


First of all have you never wondered why your politicians repeat themselves over and over again? It’s because the overage Joe is that dumb or self absorbed that only repeating the message gets through. The average westerner is so brainwashed that you would think the Soviet Union was still around. Look at the 2007 economic crises, it hit people like you like a stack of bricks without warning so the US on the one hand is 15 trilion indebt i.e. 110% of GDP and rising fast – its expected to reach 120 to 125% by this time next year, but all is OK because only the US can do this without consequences.

For every dollar you print or borrow that has to be returned with interest; now how much will that be? this depends on when you stop printing or borrowing and the US is now only printing as no one will buy their bonds. It even tried to create its own market in buying their own bonds through the Caymans/Bahams using dummy companies – it has not worked.

The same economic forecasters that warned against the toxic loans are again warning about this course of economic path in that a country can print/borrow money upto a certain level and if the economy has not kicked started then you have to bite the bullet and review your actions. Once again they are howled down by the same people which were involved in creating this economic crises in the US.
(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)

Instead of reinvesting the dollars China and others get from selling exports to the United States, Barry Anderson Barry Anderson, a former official at the OECD said, "they'll take our money and convert it into goods and services for their own people. They don't have to lend to us if they don't want to”.

This occurred about 6 to 8 months ago. The likes of china are spending big on their own people, hence the printing of money in the US.


(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)

Once Pristina institutions were formed it was UNMIK's duty to turn over authorities. It just has taken this long for the Pristina govt to be able to actually take actions in the north. Something UNMIK should have accomplished before.


It’s always someone else should have accomplished never the brave Albanians. Well let UMNIK and NATO leave and see how long Kosova exists. You people are so full of it I’d need a coal loader to move fetilizer.

(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)

What he is saying is that Kosovo and Serbia are in the EU, bankrupt or not, it will remain a power maybe not as much. Neither China nor Russia has a huge desire to attempt to change the world order in the balkans. Should either have aspirations to do so they would pick something that would be more beneficial to themselves.
What would their interventions in Kosovo-Serbia gain them? Gratitude from the Serbian people, that and 50 cents will get you a cup of coffee in some parts of the world.


The EU is like a mirage in the desert. Its always simmering on the horizon with wealth and happiness for those that join and for a long time that was true, but now its time to pay the orchestra and that is why you have this economic crises.

The EU offers NOTHING now and what Tadic and others want is to be paid for their handy work, but you see it is not going to happen because the small number of Serbs in Kosovo will keep it bubbling along as its Moscow’s desire to keep it a hot spot.

Hate to disappoint you but tadic et al can reach agreement with God but its the Serbs in Kosovo that will scuttle it as its Moscow’s desire.


(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)


Using common sense and not Serbian pride, who do you think Russia would see as a stronger partner in Europe, Serbia or Germany or France or Italy. Lets face even bankrupt Italy has more to offer than Serbia.


OK I’ll agree with that statement if you tell me why do the EU sees the Albanians in Kosovo more important than Serbia considering you are a total liability on the EU budget?

(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)

Russia has all it needs from Serbia control over its energy sector and a secrued route for its pipeline which is going to pour millions into Russia and pennies (or the equivalent in dinar) into Serbia. Your so called Russian base is more there to manage security for the pipeline and not for Kosovo. Should Serbia have a change of heart which is most likely Russia will need to protect their investment.


Why are you so hell bent on convincing me with this stuff when you can go onto an Albanian website and make you countrymen feel good? You obviously see me a nationalist who lives in Serbia but why are you so concerned? If I am wrong then I’m wrong.


(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)


Russia and China can continue their rhetoric and they can block anything they want in the UNSC. Whether they have the power today or tommorrow to do more to change things in the balkans the fact is they do not have that desire. It would create more headaches than leaving it alone.


Why would either spend a cent on confronting a dying empire when it will implode as a result of its own actions. You see the US is like a shark then needs to feed all the time and despite Serbia being on its side in 2 world wars it was attacked. That is because it mantra is yes we know about those times but what have you done for me lately.

You see the Russians have a long and personal relationship with the Serbs and they would go out of their way on certain issues as we share cultural and religious ties, but the US is a pure eating machine that will spit you out once you are of no use.

(pss, 14 November 2011 15:44)

Finally, revel in the financial woes of the west if you will but in the end it is just going to cause a lot of grief for billions of people and it will do nothing beneficial for your dear Serbia.

You notice its always “the world will end if the west goes down” syndrome. Where do you get this billions nonsense mate? Do you think that the others have not prepared for this outcome? What the west is the only smart one on this planet?


(Nenad, 14 November 2011 17:11)


As I am a film devotee of the 1940s period, I leave you with just this, learn to say “have you got a dollar for a fellow American”. It will serve you well. Watch and learn as the US is not just going broke, its doing it in supreme style.

Oh I suggest that you read up on Obama’s visit to Australia next week. When you sift all the BS he is there to visit Darwin as that is where the US will station 2000 to 3000 marines and use its facilities to repair and resupply their ships.

In other words the US has been KICKED out of the south China sea and Australia is the last place left for it to go, but they will not be there for too long as in about 2 tears they will even stop using that country.

Well I agree with much of what Stefanovic writes here. And I suspect he is writing what he believes to be the truth on this - which is rare for a politician.

Its obvious that Serbia is not going to get what it wants on Kosovo, its obvious that Kos Albanians populate and control the vast majority of the territory today. Its obvious that Kos Albanians still have the support of the powerful countries that 'decide' policy on Kosovo.

I would also say that neither China nor Russia has made Kosovo one of its foreign policy priorities. Belgrade realises this and therefore won't be able to maintain its current position forever. Let me also add that it is a fact that China (see any financial publications such as The Economist) economically will overtake the US in a decade. Its also a fact that Russia will increase in power over the next decade. However, China, far off in Asia will not decide global Kosovo policy and it is doubtful that Russia will make Kosovo a priority.

What I am saying here is that there is not much benefit in waiting for China and Russia. From a Serbian perspective the best opportunity remains for Kos Albanians to lose patience with lack of progress and turn against the internationals who in then will reduce (but not stop) support for Kosovo Albanians.

I just wish that we could have fair negotiations that could help give peace and prosperity to all the people in Kosovo.
(bganon, 14 November 2011 14:10)

Very well written but wishful thinking about Kosovo Albanians getting fed up with internationals. On the other hand much more likely that Serbs in north will get fed up of staying outside and pack up go inside or go to Serbia.

Everyone knows here that Serbs stay in kosovo due to subsidies Serbia gives them take that off and border control (so no more black Market, I mean no more black market in Serbian hands there will be still from Albanians) they will leave just 40K Serbs there trust me its not so many, and when they find out that they need to pack and go home they can eassy loos it shoot some KFOR.

Serbs have huge population issue they will give 1200Euros for any child born till Dec 2013 half of central Serbia is empty.

@ dragan I really enjoyed reading your comment I agree with you 100% poz iz cikago....

Serbs are carrying a heavy load in Kosovo. The interests of the "international community" in Kosovo are strictly sadistic. They represent problems of population explosions that are everywhere which the international religious authorities need to maintain their international dominance. As a spiritually independent people, the Serbian struggle is naturally introspective.

But they have to nothing to lose in taking a broader perspective. Nobody really wants an independent Kosovo run by Albanians. Nobody really wants Albanians controlling borders between Kosovo and the rest of Serbia. This would be a disaster. What are the rest of the borders around Albania like? Even if Serbs were to cede the borders, the Albanians would be running them with the license of and under the watchful gaze of UNMIK and KFOR. Nobody in his right mind is going to let the Albanians control borders that far north all by themselves. And what is the future of such an arrangement? It would be a nightmare. Nobody with any authority in these discussions in the EU is interested in confronting the reality, it is much too fun to twist the arms of the Serbs. For now, anyway.

Dragane ! - Bog ti Pogomo !.

Arn/Orao Sweden/Svetska.

Are two possibilities to rule one country.1) Dictatorial 2) Democratic. I’ll let the first option apart, cause in the world we live today is universally unacceptable a Dictatorial system especially in the heart of Europe. Do you Serb think that you can rule democratically a region inhabited 90% by KAlbanians. The Milosevic regime will hurt them at least for two other generations. So really I don’t believe that the purpose why Serb insists so much for Kosova is not Kosova. Anyway this is not fair by you, because you are using another time Kosova, hurting another time the people of Kosova. We Albanians say “Who prepares the hole for the other fall by self within it”.

"China, far off in Asia will not decide global Kosovo policy and it is doubtful that Russia will make Kosovo a priority. "
==================================

What has distance got to do with it? Just ask the US. They are not exactly next door to Serbia and they seem to be doing just fine making decisions.
In a decade or so the US will be paying for Chinese military by way of interest on their loans only. This is a very serious situation so how long will the US be able to dictate anyone's future?
The US is putting more effort into Australia now. Unfortunately there is a base about to go up in Darwin. I wonder what the US is thinking these days? Why is a base need in the Northern Territory? The US cannot possibly afford all the bases and something will have to be let go. Russia needs Serbia and will make it her priority as soon as the current government is gone.

@ passing by - what are you talking about. you have no say about kosovo let alone presevo bujanovac or medvedja. so stop the b-s garbage your spewing ps mirel from Albania don't worry about srpsko kosovo worry about your corrupt criminal country. Albania....

I love these pictures used to describe these stories. All the DS officials are pictured with the Coat of Arms or the flag behind them...makes them look so patriotic.

A question to hardcore Serb diaspora.

I think that it could not have gotten more hardcore in Belgrade than when Milosevic was in power. What did Milosevic (the hardcore-st of all) bring to Serbia other than destruction, humiliation, and poverty. I am not really looking for "everyone else was out to get Serbia" but a simple comparison pre- and post- Milosevic Serbia.

"Very well written but wishful thinking about Kosovo Albanians getting fed up with internationals. On the other hand much more likely that Serbs in north will get fed up of staying outside and pack up go inside or go to Serbia."
(RSA, 14 November 2011 15:25)

You already have the nationalist extremists in Kosovo who call themselves 'self determination movement'. They vandalize EULEX cars and oppose the EU sponsored Belgrade-Pristina-dialogue.

My hope is that the internationals one day soon will get fed up with the crime and corruption within Kosovo, stop the donor money for this corrupt government and EULEX is arresting the responsible politicians and start to establish law and order, starting with murders who can run around freely and the drug mafia which has a nice home to operate in Kosovo.

Peggy if you know anything about history and international relations you wouldn't be asking that question.

Spheres of influence above all. The US has had troops stationed in Europe since WW2. All of western Europe was under US influence post WW2. The iron curtain divided Soviet and American sphere of influence in Europe and Jugoslavija was considered to be neutral, or after Tito's decisive break with USSR, closer to the US / Western block.

China never has had much influence in Europe, although this will change over the next decade, but that influence will be economic. Chinese political influence in Europe will be limited.

The situation in Australia / US isn't the same as you are comparing one largely Anglo-Saxon culture with another. For example Serbia and China do not have similar origins or language to share. Besides, the three largest trading partners of Austalia are all relatively closeby - China, Japan and Singapore with South Korea pushing in as well. You must realise that geography plays a major part of economic and political influence, as does stationing of troops etc.

I have to say Peggy that your words have the sound of wishing to them rather than that of reality. What interest is it of the Russian government to make Serbia a foreign policy priority? What does Russia get in return? You think they will do it for free?

I'll make you a deal, if Nikolic gets into power and Russia actively defends Kosovo reversing Kosovo independence then I will not only eat my hat, I'll eat my shirt as well.
Frankly I think there is more chance of the US announcing that we are not alone in the universe.

SJ stop with your absurd thinking, you do not know what you are talking about.

Russia being an ally of the Serbs is the biggest myth,they only use countries to benefit for their own ass.

If Russia really wanted to help Serbia, we wouldn't have this problem regarding Kosovo at the moment.

Do you Serb think that you can rule democratically a region inhabited 90% by KAlbanians.
(dori tirana, 15 November 2011 09:30)

Do you Albanians think that you can rule democratically a region inhabited 95% by KSerbs?

Why couldn't KSerbs live in Northern Kosovo and Southern enclaves thinking that they live in Serbia, while KAlbanians live in Southern Kosovo thinking they live in independent state Kosovo?

Why did Thaci start all that trouble last summer? Hasn't he got anything else to do?

passsing....didn't you post that same sophmoric quote about 1 week ago?

As an albanians I wish Kustunica and nationalists win the election, so EU or USA can not have an excuse to dream about europian Serbia anymore, and it will be over the Kosova issue by being recognised by the last 5 loners in EU and member of UN.
We as albanians will have more support with Kushunica in power than with Tadic.
(Mirel from Albania, 14 November 2011 18:14)

For the same reasons, why didn't you Albanians vote for a honorable government, without corrupt politicians, without mafia leader, without former war criminals? Why don't you care for human rights being respected, ethnically motivated murders being punished hard, drug mafia being destroyed, election manipulators being removed from politics? Then countries all around the world wouldn't have an excuse not to recognized a corrupt, undemocratic state run by criminals? Think about it.

Do you Albanians think that you can rule democratically a region inhabited 95% by KSerbs?
(aaayyy, 15 November 2011 15:21)

I don’t think anybody thinks that. Kosovo’s Constitution guarantees that Kosovo regions where Serbs are a majority, can govern their local affairs by themselves. Nobody is going to have Albanians govern the local affairs of those regions.
----------

Why couldn't KSerbs live in Northern Kosovo and Southern enclaves thinking that they live in Serbia, while KAlbanians live in Southern Kosovo thinking they live in independent state Kosovo?
(aaayyy, 15 November 2011 15:21)

Of course they can think they live in Serbia, Europe, Moon, etc… Everybody is free to think whatever he/she wants. Nobody has an issue with that.
----------

Why did Thaci start all that trouble last summer? Hasn't he got anything else to do?
(aaayyy, 15 November 2011 15:21)

I’m not sure what trouble you are speaking about ?! Who was troubled and why ?!

sj Agreed as I said China will increasingly become an economic force in Europe, there is no doubt about that. The only debate is how long it will take, or possibly whether some political overhaul will take place in China in the short to medium term.

As far as Russia is concerned we already have a number of Russian businessmen buying up European companies, there will be more of that. However, I doubt that the Russian (government) will control Europe, more like certain individuals will become key. That is the same as in Russia, the Russian government doesn't control much, it is indivduals within that government and key oligarchs that run things. By the way until this changes (and there is no sign of that after the Finance Minister's ousting) I don't believe that Russia will fulfil its potential and maximise its growth.

Sj I was not only referring to military force. As you well know a common language and culture help to foster business ties. As Peggy pointed out the US remains an important investor in Australia, although you have explained to her at least one of the major reasons why the US military is present in Australia.

The Southern Stream Pipeline is already secured. Why would Russia change its Kosovo policy for something they already have? All major political parties in Serbia support that pipeline. I don't understand what you mean when you say that the Russians will watch as the Serbs derail the talks and not a finger will be lifted against them (against who, the Russians, Serbia, the Kosovo Serbs???). And who would lift a finger anyway and why?

Apart from that not making much sense on that point, I return to my previous point, what will the Russians do to return Kosovo to Serbia? Some people are suggesting that Russian policy will change if Nikolic gets in. How and for what reason are my questions.

Do you have a prediction on when US troops will leave Kosovo? I mean hell its easy to say they will leave, they will. But if you think it makes you look smart by saying that and not giving any timeframe, well no cigar...

Icj, seriously, you have not addressed one issue properly. All you have done is made some smart arse remarks which only you would think are clever but nothing else.
I am amazed you think you make any sense.
(Peggy, 16 November 2011 10:55)

Thank you Peggy for supporting what I said by not providing any argument against :)

The problem is the mines are in the north. And the other problem is the River Ibor is to deep to smuggle through.
And by the way there are still serbs being killed in Kosovo.
Where is justice in Kosovo ?

What has distance got to do with it? Just ask the US. They are not exactly next door to Serbia and they seem to be doing just fine making decisions.
(Peggy, 14 November 2011 21:04)

Because they are the US and not China, in case you have not understood it, yet :)
----------

In a decade or so the US will be paying for Chinese military by way of interest on their loans only.
(Peggy, 14 November 2011 21:04)

Of course, like any borrower pays interest to the lender. That's Finance 101. The borrower borrows money, puts it at work, earns a profit, pockets a portion of the profit and gives a portion to the lender in the form of interest. All parties win, otherwise the transaction will not happen. I don’t get though what that has to do with insignificant things like Kosovo and Serbia ?!
----------

This is a very serious situation so how long will the US be able to dictate anyone's future?
(Peggy, 14 November 2011 21:04)

US does not dictate anything, even now !
----------

The US is putting more effort into Australia now. Unfortunately there is a base about to go up in Darwin. I wonder what the US is thinking these days? Why is a base need in the Northern Territory? The US cannot possibly afford all the bases and something will have to be let go.
(Peggy, 14 November 2011 21:04)

We can leave that to US to sort out; I think Kosovo and Serbia have more pressing issues than dealing with what US does in Australia, China in the Moon or NASA in the solar system.
----------

Russia needs Serbia and will make it her priority as soon as the current government is gone.
(Peggy, 14 November 2011 21:04)

Sure, it wants to exploit Serbia’s assets and then it will make Serbia as much as a priority as with Milosevic’s government when Russia did not hesitate to dump Serbia in 1999. Dear Peggy, I know that for you and some Albanians, the Sun revolves around Kosovo and Serbia, but it does not mean that’s the same for all the world.

Arn.Sweden,
(Arn.,Sweden., 14 November 2011 12:59)
Did you just pick up a newspaper a couple of weeks ago and find out there was a conflict in the balkans?? Your post makes it seem so.
As a province of Serbia or FRY or whoever, Kosovo north and south was all Kosovo. The disconnection came with 1244, Rambouillet, Kumanovo, with the lines drawn.
Up until now Serbia has never been willing to discuss in any form all of Kosovo not remaining in Serbia. When the idea of partition was first circulated years ago, it was rejected by all parties and EVERYONE refused to discuss such an idea.
The idea is only gaining momentum now because Serb officials are beginning to realize it is their only hope of retaining anything.

So to say if the Albanians would have given up the north to start there would be no problems jsut is not so, and unbelievably a naive statement.
As for now should anytype of agreement to partitiion should gain some realization it is in the Albanians interest to only agree in exchange for full and unconditioned recognition.

bganon, 15 November 2011 03:13)

This is what you get for an argument all the time – back to the past. This is 2011 and the past is the past and nothing more and nothing less – look at what is playing out now. China wants to liberalise trade with Europe to its advantage and it can do it because they have the money on hand. Russia wants to control Europe and it can live with China’s wishes regarding trade – Russia not only has money in reserves it has what Europe needs to stop it going into the middles ages – energy and lots of it. Libya is turning into a basket case already with Islamists refusing to disarm and some are being funded by Quatar and Al Quida groups.

Now these same idiots are trying to remove Assad. Well it seems that Iran is now abandoning Assad and siding up to the opposition – Islamists.

“The situation in Australia / US isn't the same as you are comparing one largely Anglo-Saxon culture with another”

The only reason the US is in Australia is because the Chinese have kicked the US out of the South China Sea – the last time the US had large numbers o troops in Australia was during WW2 when this was the only place not hostile to it. They are not in Australia by choice by simply cant do anything about it.

“What interest is it of the Russian government to make Serbia a foreign policy priority”

It’s called the South stream pipeline. It does not want its assets to be threatened by western interests and watch as the Serbs in Kosovo derail all thee talks between Belgrade and Pristina and not a finger will be lifted against them.

Nikolic is a first class fool, but he is Moscow’s fool and if you think the Russians are going to allow the Americans to continue with Camp Krusty you are living in lal la land. I’d suggest that you start losing weight in that there will be less material to consume.

Nikolic is a first class fool, but he is Moscow’s fool and if you think the Russians are going to allow the Americans to continue with Camp Krusty you are living in lal la land. I’d suggest that you start losing weight in that there will be less material to consume.
(sj, 16 November 2011 00:15)
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Agree. That's why the Yanks are looking in different direction now and are setting up a base in Darwin, Australia.
They cannot possibly afford to keep all the bases so some will have to go.
Their priority is keeping China in check somewhat and our radio announcers are even talking about a possibility of some conflict with China in the future.
As Russia gets a stronger hold on the Balkans and the Yanks get too busy with China, Camp Bondsteel with be a memory.

Icj, seriously, you have not addressed one issue properly. All you have done is made some smart arse remarks which only you would think are clever but nothing else.
I am amazed you think you make any sense.

Sj I was not only referring to military force. As you well know a common language and culture help to foster business ties. As Peggy pointed out the US remains an important investor in Australia, although you have explained to her at least one of the major reasons why the US military is present in Australia.
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Thank you, but I don't think I need anyone to explain to me what the Yanks are doing in Australia.
I think we all know that.
They are putting Australia, at least Darwin in great danger. Indonesia is not too happy about the base either.