Wow, if you actually twist around country details, the article paints a picture of present day America. Maybe, Monty, you’re trying to tell us something deeper...I just can’t see the bigger picture. Can you shed some light on the bigger picture???
Anyway, my best guess is as follows, contrary to yours and to provide balance;
a) A contingency plan has been developed to protect internationals when the few extremists realise Independence is not coming tomorrow or the next day…Ironically, internationals will be placed in KFOR camps or Serbian villages for protection…If I were a Serb I would prevent such a move…but Serbs, the masters of there own downfall for being tolerant and naive will probably say come and have a drink…Good idea, so the world can see the ferocious, wild, baby eating Serbs as I was once told in New York HQ…
b) Volunteers, I hope so, because serb villages are going to need relief aid and maybe a heater for the ship containers they still live in since the March 2004 displacement.
Oh, you meant these volunteer fighters, its ok, there are enough young men here in Kosovo, including Internationals who are fed up with the Albanian nationalist threats, which come from that insignificant criminal portion that leads Kosovo without the blessing of most Albanians (37% vote, should that be void and re-elections commence.
c) Serbs have every right to challenge the masters of this balkanic, volcanic experiment and yes, the lava is heading for Western Europe.
d) Large protests will take place in Kosovo, just like after the turks failed to address the Albanian criminalities dream of greater Albania (1878), Italians and Germans (1943); Tito (50’s, 60’s and 70’s) until he granted his babies more than autonomy. It is sad that most folks from the west are not considering the actions that will arise south of the Ibar, more so in the albanian communities.
e) Nobody wants to be friends with countries that openly support terrorists, just like in the 90's when the English Foreign Minister to Northern Ireland told Clinton to stay out of the NI isssue. Kosovo provides me with a gauge as to how NI would have turned out if the UN went in under American control.
f) Serbia should have refused to pay Kosovo debts in 2000, People in the Balkans have paid enough to the thieves in Kosovo, when money was diverted into the pockets of criminals and infrastructure poorly maintained.
g) Serbia won’t need to close the borders, anyone with alterior motives will be known, that’s why the criminals choose Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and Croatia as transit.
h) Serbia doesn’t need to cut power, there is no bloody power unless you have a 5.5 Kv generator. Plant C has collapsed and A and B are ready to go, with an 18 month timeline given by the former Japanese Engineer who stated he could not believe this is 21st century Europe. He left after three months in fear of local engineers blowing the place up thru lack of engineering skills.
i) It is only natural like a wheel turning, that Russia will support greater than Yeltsin. America has lost influence and control over global affairs, similar to the roman empire.
j) Damn right they should reinforce borders, if not enter Kosovo. Additionally and my favourite thought, because it is true, Kosovo’s History will repeat itself, it’s a matter of when, where and what scale. And as for the train crash, it can be stopped by EU. Xavier and Oli should take a good look at themselves in the mirror, you can take a stance and rid the albanian population of the cancerous individuals that have just put themselves in positions of Prime minister and other fancy spots. Does EU & US really want to do business with these men. Is this what Europe is building on…if so, the way the EU ascended, the same path will be used for its descent, during such a descent, you will have the pleasure to see the past mistakes and lies that created this ‘Kosovstein’. You’re supposed to have a vision for future generations…or is it more simple that members of European parliament are scared to take on such a huge responsibility of babysitting ‘Kosovstein’…
Monty, come what may, the decisions that take place in the coming months will be met with divine intervention, something pro-independence lobbyists can’t brush away. People will get hurt, that’s a fact, but it will be the last time anybody inside/outside the Balkans tries to redefine other lives through the barrel of a gun. Serbs are outnumbered, but the threat is equivalent to a flock of sheep, take the leader and the rest will either stand scared or runaway.
In Hereford, at a well established barracks, a poster can be seen, with a flock of sheep, it states, “If you can’t lead, then follow, if you can’t follow, f**k off”
EU MEP’s should print the same poster, after which they might create a backbone and deal with serious issues, instead of hiding.
Go ahead Mr. Ambassador, go ahead with the recognition and you will get about 10 million frustrated Serbs in The Balkans. And then, let's see how your government will deal with such crowd.
Monty again sees a rock in someone elses yard but not the mountain in his own.
"Finally, even though the government has been careful to avoid any overt signs of support, the announced formation of a “St. Tsar Lazar Guard” composed of Serbian volunteers to fight to defend Kosovo in the event of an unilateral declaration of independence is obviously designed to raise the possibility of paramilitary units going into Kosovo as they did in Bosnia and Croatia in 1990-95.
The hope of the DSS is that these threats and actions will be sufficient to scare key EU countries such as Germany so that they defer any action on Kosovo."
and,
"b) At least some “volunteers” from Serbia proper will go to help the Kosovo Serbs. The government will take a hands-off position and claim that it had nothing to do with it. "
He is writting as if it's obvious that Serbian government is behind those guys, or at least DSS (while they will deny it, of course). Just like Milosevic backed them up, right?
He doesn't believe that there could be some shadowy organization in existance on its own, and without somebody's backing.
Well, let's not believe it, then.
Who's behind ANA, Mr. Montgomery?
Kosovo authorities, or NATO?
So, what are you going to do about it? If it's first, why don't you go after them?
It could be your government, couldn't it. Sure, US government will take a hands-off position and claim that it had nothing to do with it. But, now we know, don't we?
Can one assume that, when Montgomery is done writting for B92, he may have a shot at writting for the "National Inquirer"? Or, perhaps, writting Richard Holbrook's biography? Either way, I tend to believe that his writtings will always be well "fertilized" with "fact".
"... it appears as if the majority of EU countries (including all the "heavy hitters) with the support and encouragement of the United States has decided to proceed regardless of the potential consequences".
Apparently, Holland does not belong to this so-called majority of countries. Our foreign minister (Maxim Verhagen) has, on different occasions, critized the US for their intention to recognize Kosovo as an independent state when K-Albanians unilaterally declare independence. The Dutch government prefers further negotations, even if this may take months or years.
What sort of future does United States and Europe envision for Serbia if is willing to facilitate a Radical as President (by recognizing Kosovo's independence)?
I guess I could rephrase this question:
Will recognizing Kosovo's independence with a knowledge that this will MOST CERTAINLY, OBVIOUSLY AND COMMON SENSICALLY RADICALIZE SERBIA not show that United States and EU do NOT have the same degree of discomfort with the Radical Party as majority of Serbians do?
You know very well that these are the key questions and not what Kostunica or Tadic are thinking.
You have a unique opportunity to enlighten us about what is REALLY going on. We really don't need this sort of party-line propaganda from yet another source. We can just read your former employer's Press Releases. Boring.
Obviously there's going to be a strong nationalistic backlash in Serbia if the U.S. and EU recognize Kosovo independence.
There would be a strong nationalistic reaction in any country to an assault on its sovregnity and the theft of its territory.
Parties like the DS and G17 Plus went way out on a limb after the NATO bombing to encourage "euro-atlantic integration" and "cooperation with the Hague Tribunal". They said that closer ties with NATO, such as joining the Partnership for Peace, would bring Western friendship and prosperity to Serbia.
The pro-Western parties went out on this limb, but instead of reciprocating, the West is intent on chopping down the tree with them still in it.
If the Serbian electorate sees the West dismembering Serbia and trying to confiscate Serbia's territory, then parties that have consistently taken a strong anti-Western position, such as the Socialists and the Radicals will gain greatly in power and credibility.
How will it look to the Serbian electorate to see the pro-Western parties lose Kosovo, when Milosevic at least managed to get guarantees from the UN Security Council (Resolution 1244), and NATO (at Kumanovo) that Serbia's territorial integrity would be respected?
If I were a Serb I would vote for the Radicals too. It's high time for the West to abandon its practice of "proceeding regardless of the potential consequences".
I usually enjoy de-constructing His Excellency William Montgomery's hardly-veiled State Department propaganda, as his articles usually contain something legible that should be rebuked by facts. This does not even comply with that minumum standard. My official reply: 'no comment.'
" At least twenty members of the EU now seem prepared to join the United States in recognizing a unilateral declaration of independence by the Kosovo Albanians."
- please name them as I very much doubt yo can given that it is only UK, France who support the idea and no longer Germany who were always in doubt!
"The problem is that although I see this train wreck comely clearly down the line, I just don’t see how it will be stopped."
This trainwreck is quite similar as that in 1991. And just as then it is the Western diplomats who are on the train that ignores the rules.
In 1991 Croatia would still have become independent without the Badinter commission and the premature recognition. But Western diplomats preferred to ignore international law and Croatian ethnic cleansing in order to support the side that they had adopted as "friends".
Now we see the same:
- Kosovo will still become independent if we admit that Serbia has the power to block its independence. But Kosovo's politicians will have to do more concessions. Not a bad thing if one takes into account the sorry state of Kosovo's minority rights.
- The two most fundamental things that Bosnia needs to grow together as a country again is trust and acceptance of the present situation as a starting point. The constitution proposed last year was a good way to expand on that - but international support was weak. Now Lajcak is destroying this trust, disturbing the balance of power in Bosnia's institutions and setting the stage for an inevitable confrontation.
The desinformtion that Raffi Gregorian and his Clinton-era friends are spreading in the US nowadays inevitably lead to a disastrous policy.
“...it appears as if the majority of EU countries (including all of the “heavy hitters” with the support and encouragement of the United States has decided to proceed regardless of the potential consequences….
The problem is that although I see this train wreck comely clearly down the line, I just don’t see how it will be stopped.”
Mr. Montgomery,
You clearly have found the solution to avoiding what you view as an impending “train wreck”.
If your prediction is correct and the EU “heavy hitters” with the support and encouragement of the US are going to “proceed regardless of the potential consequences, then it is the EU “heavy hitters” and the US who are driving this train.
If the US and the "heavy hitters" continue with their reckless abandonment by proceeding "regardless of the potential consequences" then it is the EU “heavy hitters” and the US who are responsible for any and all consequences.
Just stop the train and let the US and EU "heavy hitters" get off.
Monty it must be hard for you, since you could no longer keep Hong-Kong British.
The answer is quiet simple, just like every other European country, those with a right to be "resident", even in Kosovo (i.e., a bone-fide "passport" or "immigration papers") should feel free to stay in Kosovo and even have a vote. While the rest can leave by the same escort provided by the likes of Germany, Italy, France, Spain, England ...etc.
Let the "good" Europeans lead by example and help Serbia enforce Euopean law by helping oversee the removal of illegal immigrants from Kosovo. Maybe even some terrorists, slave-traders, drug-traffikers and so on ...
What is so "rotten-in-Albania" that its citizens leave in droves?
Kosovar-Australian signing off; on the green line.
Blame it all on Serbs, why don't you? Too bad that Milosevic died, you could blame it on him. But, never mind you can always declare Kosutnica to be new Milosevic. Tribunal could indict him right now. Why wait?
"Relations with the United States and the EU will deteriorate sharply.
The coalition partners of the DSS will see much of their work and their goals evaporating in front of them and will be confronted with either leaving the government or accepting responsibility for actions which will take them further from their professed reasons for joining the government in the first place. "
The way you said it. As if it's not something positive.
'The problem is that although I see this train wreck comely clearly down the line, I just don’t see how it will be stopped.'
Easy, Monty. It can be stopped by treating Serbs fairly. Is that such a foreign concept to you? Are you so blinded by America's anti-Serbian policies that you can't see the forest for the trees?
Give Serbs the same right to self determination that you apply to all other minorities of ex-Yugoslavia, stop trying to reward ethnic cleansing and terrorism in Kosovo, tell Kosovo albanians that they live in Serbia and that any redrawing of borders has to pass the UN (therefore it can't happen), send Ceku to the Hague for the Medak pocket massacres, send Nasir Oric to the Hague for life for the Bratunac massacres, admit to US support for the ethnic cleansing and genocide of the entire Serb population of Krajina (Clinton, Albright and Holbrooke in the Hague to answer for this), admit that trying to support Ahtisari's greater albania project while at the same time trying to strip Serbs in Bosnia of all autonomy is a dispicable double standard....these are just some of the ways to show that America is 'fair'. None of these have been done, and until they are, there will never be stability in the Balkans.
"In fact, it unfortunately seems that many in the West are beginning to view Serbia, as during the Milošević years, as a destabilizing factor in the region. The “honeymoon” following the downfall of Milošević is definitely over."
As a matter of fact, most countries know and treat Serbia just like Milosevic was in power, since he left his"baby" Kostunica in charge.
Kostunica is taking Serbia down the wrong pathway.
Somebody has to stop him before the process of returning back to EU path will become irreversible.
Please, I beg you, get rid of them, and elect a viable pro-western person, I know there are such people in Serbia today, smart enough to rid Serbia of the bad image and get in the EU path.
Jovan, stop bashing B92 man, you are not paying thir salary and neither is K. Koshtunica. Its a free prees company. They try as realisticaly as possible under the circumstances. This is not Communism, so quit while you're ahead.
As a former ambassador to Serbia (Yugoslavia) you should be able to have some positive feeling toward that nation but you do not. Recall the time when you were in Belgrade and your government approved $105 millions for anti Milosevic propaganda and for students resistance "Otpor".
How different was your opinion about Mr. Kostunica then and now. At that time you were absolutely sure that : Zoran Dindic wouldn't win election so full support was given to Prof. Kostunica, the expert in constitutional law.
Now when he proof (as an expert) that all action of your country (more exactly your government) and officials as Burns, McCormack and others is illegal from point of view of international law, you call him NATIONALIST !!!!
You also put intentionally a whole blame on Serbs even Kosovo Albanians are much worse. You wrote:
"Finally, even though the government has been careful to avoid any overt signs of support, the announced formation of a “St. Tsar Lazar Guard” composed of Serbian volunteers to fight to defend Kosovo in the event of an unilateral declaration of independence is obviously designed to raise the possibility of paramilitary units going into Kosovo as they did in Bosnia and Croatia in 1990".
What about ANA in Kosovo patrolling roads with Kalaschnikows and grenade launchers?
Why nobody arrest them as terrorists? Where is KFOR, NATO, UMNIK (the most corrupted organization), EU and all other supporters of independent Kosovo?
Perhaps your propaganda is OK for your uneducated countrymen who even have no idea were the Balkans are but is not convincing any intelligent American nor European.
And last but not least. What is wrong about close tights with Russia? Personally I’ll prefer to cooperate with friends then with enemy. I’ll welcome a Russian investment and friendship more the NATO/EU membership and exploitation.
Well then Mr. Montgomery, seeing as how you are also returning to the Holbrooke years of conveniently placing all responsibility for instability in the Balkans on those pesky Serbs, and denouncing activities that are almost identically practiced and condoned by Albanians in Kosovo and Macedonia, what is your government going to do about it? Everytime you tried to halt Milosevic, he just created more chaos. Everytime some other group cries "self-determination" you weep for their cause. Everytime Serbs cry "self-determination" you tell them to shove it.
So here's the deal: you can continue to berate Serbia as the proverbial scapegoat, and push them farther into Russia's corner, and probably guarantee an SRS victory (to which you'll probably write some article saying "I told you so").
Or your government can try something completely different and radical: it can engage the Serbian government as one populated by human being with legitimate grievances and international interests.
Quit blaming other governments for your government's foreign policy shortcomings, and diplomatic ineptness.
Just to help out everyone who finds it difficult to believe and understand that the red line for Kosovar Albanians is not less than full independence and sovereignity for Kosova.
well then, let it happen! we will see what the "US and at least 20 other EU-members" will be responsible for!
what is so sad about it, B92 seems to be very eager to publish those filthy threats and pseudo-arguments....
sad, really sad!
remember, Monty and all of those who want to create the impression of a Serbia "of yesterday"...
you are openly acting against international law!
Serbia would have all the right in the world to respond. not only the moral right,that it has anyway...no, even the legal laws are on Serbia´s side.
how for heaven´s sake do you want to present Serbia as the "bad guy"?
finally, bravo to B92...you´re just showing where your interests are.
Well then Mr. Montgomery, seeing as how you are also returning to the Holbrooke years of conveniently placing all responsibility for instability in the Balkans on those pesky Serbs, and denouncing activities that are almost identically practiced and condoned by Albanians in Kosovo and Macedonia, what is your government going to do about it? Everytime you tried to halt Milosevic, he just created more chaos. Everytime some other group cries "self-determination" you weep for their cause. Everytime Serbs cry "self-determination" you tell them to shove it.
So here's the deal: you can continue to berate Serbia as the proverbial scapegoat, and push them farther into Russia's corner, and probably guarantee an SRS victory (to which you'll probably write some article saying "I told you so").
Or your government can try something completely different and radical: it can engage the Serbian government as one populated by human being with legitimate grievances and international interests.
Quit blaming other governments for your government's foreign policy shortcomings, and diplomatic ineptness.
'The problem is that although I see this train wreck comely clearly down the line, I just don’t see how it will be stopped.'
Easy, Monty. It can be stopped by treating Serbs fairly. Is that such a foreign concept to you? Are you so blinded by America's anti-Serbian policies that you can't see the forest for the trees?
Give Serbs the same right to self determination that you apply to all other minorities of ex-Yugoslavia, stop trying to reward ethnic cleansing and terrorism in Kosovo, tell Kosovo albanians that they live in Serbia and that any redrawing of borders has to pass the UN (therefore it can't happen), send Ceku to the Hague for the Medak pocket massacres, send Nasir Oric to the Hague for life for the Bratunac massacres, admit to US support for the ethnic cleansing and genocide of the entire Serb population of Krajina (Clinton, Albright and Holbrooke in the Hague to answer for this), admit that trying to support Ahtisari's greater albania project while at the same time trying to strip Serbs in Bosnia of all autonomy is a dispicable double standard....these are just some of the ways to show that America is 'fair'. None of these have been done, and until they are, there will never be stability in the Balkans.
As a former ambassador to Serbia (Yugoslavia) you should be able to have some positive feeling toward that nation but you do not. Recall the time when you were in Belgrade and your government approved $105 millions for anti Milosevic propaganda and for students resistance "Otpor".
How different was your opinion about Mr. Kostunica then and now. At that time you were absolutely sure that : Zoran Dindic wouldn't win election so full support was given to Prof. Kostunica, the expert in constitutional law.
Now when he proof (as an expert) that all action of your country (more exactly your government) and officials as Burns, McCormack and others is illegal from point of view of international law, you call him NATIONALIST !!!!
You also put intentionally a whole blame on Serbs even Kosovo Albanians are much worse. You wrote:
"Finally, even though the government has been careful to avoid any overt signs of support, the announced formation of a “St. Tsar Lazar Guard” composed of Serbian volunteers to fight to defend Kosovo in the event of an unilateral declaration of independence is obviously designed to raise the possibility of paramilitary units going into Kosovo as they did in Bosnia and Croatia in 1990".
What about ANA in Kosovo patrolling roads with Kalaschnikows and grenade launchers?
Why nobody arrest them as terrorists? Where is KFOR, NATO, UMNIK (the most corrupted organization), EU and all other supporters of independent Kosovo?
Perhaps your propaganda is OK for your uneducated countrymen who even have no idea were the Balkans are but is not convincing any intelligent American nor European.
And last but not least. What is wrong about close tights with Russia? Personally I’ll prefer to cooperate with friends then with enemy. I’ll welcome a Russian investment and friendship more the NATO/EU membership and exploitation.
well then, let it happen! we will see what the "US and at least 20 other EU-members" will be responsible for!
what is so sad about it, B92 seems to be very eager to publish those filthy threats and pseudo-arguments....
sad, really sad!
remember, Monty and all of those who want to create the impression of a Serbia "of yesterday"...
you are openly acting against international law!
Serbia would have all the right in the world to respond. not only the moral right,that it has anyway...no, even the legal laws are on Serbia´s side.
how for heaven´s sake do you want to present Serbia as the "bad guy"?
finally, bravo to B92...you´re just showing where your interests are.
Obviously there's going to be a strong nationalistic backlash in Serbia if the U.S. and EU recognize Kosovo independence.
There would be a strong nationalistic reaction in any country to an assault on its sovregnity and the theft of its territory.
Parties like the DS and G17 Plus went way out on a limb after the NATO bombing to encourage "euro-atlantic integration" and "cooperation with the Hague Tribunal". They said that closer ties with NATO, such as joining the Partnership for Peace, would bring Western friendship and prosperity to Serbia.
The pro-Western parties went out on this limb, but instead of reciprocating, the West is intent on chopping down the tree with them still in it.
If the Serbian electorate sees the West dismembering Serbia and trying to confiscate Serbia's territory, then parties that have consistently taken a strong anti-Western position, such as the Socialists and the Radicals will gain greatly in power and credibility.
How will it look to the Serbian electorate to see the pro-Western parties lose Kosovo, when Milosevic at least managed to get guarantees from the UN Security Council (Resolution 1244), and NATO (at Kumanovo) that Serbia's territorial integrity would be respected?
If I were a Serb I would vote for the Radicals too. It's high time for the West to abandon its practice of "proceeding regardless of the potential consequences".
I usually enjoy de-constructing His Excellency William Montgomery's hardly-veiled State Department propaganda, as his articles usually contain something legible that should be rebuked by facts. This does not even comply with that minumum standard. My official reply: 'no comment.'
“...it appears as if the majority of EU countries (including all of the “heavy hitters” with the support and encouragement of the United States has decided to proceed regardless of the potential consequences….
The problem is that although I see this train wreck comely clearly down the line, I just don’t see how it will be stopped.”
Mr. Montgomery,
You clearly have found the solution to avoiding what you view as an impending “train wreck”.
If your prediction is correct and the EU “heavy hitters” with the support and encouragement of the US are going to “proceed regardless of the potential consequences, then it is the EU “heavy hitters” and the US who are driving this train.
If the US and the "heavy hitters" continue with their reckless abandonment by proceeding "regardless of the potential consequences" then it is the EU “heavy hitters” and the US who are responsible for any and all consequences.
Just stop the train and let the US and EU "heavy hitters" get off.
Just to help out everyone who finds it difficult to believe and understand that the red line for Kosovar Albanians is not less than full independence and sovereignity for Kosova.
"In fact, it unfortunately seems that many in the West are beginning to view Serbia, as during the Milošević years, as a destabilizing factor in the region. The “honeymoon” following the downfall of Milošević is definitely over."
As a matter of fact, most countries know and treat Serbia just like Milosevic was in power, since he left his"baby" Kostunica in charge.
Kostunica is taking Serbia down the wrong pathway.
Somebody has to stop him before the process of returning back to EU path will become irreversible.
Please, I beg you, get rid of them, and elect a viable pro-western person, I know there are such people in Serbia today, smart enough to rid Serbia of the bad image and get in the EU path.
Jovan, stop bashing B92 man, you are not paying thir salary and neither is K. Koshtunica. Its a free prees company. They try as realisticaly as possible under the circumstances. This is not Communism, so quit while you're ahead.
Blame it all on Serbs, why don't you? Too bad that Milosevic died, you could blame it on him. But, never mind you can always declare Kosutnica to be new Milosevic. Tribunal could indict him right now. Why wait?
"The problem is that although I see this train wreck comely clearly down the line, I just don’t see how it will be stopped."
This trainwreck is quite similar as that in 1991. And just as then it is the Western diplomats who are on the train that ignores the rules.
In 1991 Croatia would still have become independent without the Badinter commission and the premature recognition. But Western diplomats preferred to ignore international law and Croatian ethnic cleansing in order to support the side that they had adopted as "friends".
Now we see the same:
- Kosovo will still become independent if we admit that Serbia has the power to block its independence. But Kosovo's politicians will have to do more concessions. Not a bad thing if one takes into account the sorry state of Kosovo's minority rights.
- The two most fundamental things that Bosnia needs to grow together as a country again is trust and acceptance of the present situation as a starting point. The constitution proposed last year was a good way to expand on that - but international support was weak. Now Lajcak is destroying this trust, disturbing the balance of power in Bosnia's institutions and setting the stage for an inevitable confrontation.
The desinformtion that Raffi Gregorian and his Clinton-era friends are spreading in the US nowadays inevitably lead to a disastrous policy.
Monty it must be hard for you, since you could no longer keep Hong-Kong British.
The answer is quiet simple, just like every other European country, those with a right to be "resident", even in Kosovo (i.e., a bone-fide "passport" or "immigration papers") should feel free to stay in Kosovo and even have a vote. While the rest can leave by the same escort provided by the likes of Germany, Italy, France, Spain, England ...etc.
Let the "good" Europeans lead by example and help Serbia enforce Euopean law by helping oversee the removal of illegal immigrants from Kosovo. Maybe even some terrorists, slave-traders, drug-traffikers and so on ...
What is so "rotten-in-Albania" that its citizens leave in droves?
Kosovar-Australian signing off; on the green line.
" At least twenty members of the EU now seem prepared to join the United States in recognizing a unilateral declaration of independence by the Kosovo Albanians."
- please name them as I very much doubt yo can given that it is only UK, France who support the idea and no longer Germany who were always in doubt!
Go ahead Mr. Ambassador, go ahead with the recognition and you will get about 10 million frustrated Serbs in The Balkans. And then, let's see how your government will deal with such crowd.
What sort of future does United States and Europe envision for Serbia if is willing to facilitate a Radical as President (by recognizing Kosovo's independence)?
I guess I could rephrase this question:
Will recognizing Kosovo's independence with a knowledge that this will MOST CERTAINLY, OBVIOUSLY AND COMMON SENSICALLY RADICALIZE SERBIA not show that United States and EU do NOT have the same degree of discomfort with the Radical Party as majority of Serbians do?
You know very well that these are the key questions and not what Kostunica or Tadic are thinking.
You have a unique opportunity to enlighten us about what is REALLY going on. We really don't need this sort of party-line propaganda from yet another source. We can just read your former employer's Press Releases. Boring.
Monty again sees a rock in someone elses yard but not the mountain in his own.
"Finally, even though the government has been careful to avoid any overt signs of support, the announced formation of a “St. Tsar Lazar Guard” composed of Serbian volunteers to fight to defend Kosovo in the event of an unilateral declaration of independence is obviously designed to raise the possibility of paramilitary units going into Kosovo as they did in Bosnia and Croatia in 1990-95.
The hope of the DSS is that these threats and actions will be sufficient to scare key EU countries such as Germany so that they defer any action on Kosovo."
and,
"b) At least some “volunteers” from Serbia proper will go to help the Kosovo Serbs. The government will take a hands-off position and claim that it had nothing to do with it. "
He is writting as if it's obvious that Serbian government is behind those guys, or at least DSS (while they will deny it, of course). Just like Milosevic backed them up, right?
He doesn't believe that there could be some shadowy organization in existance on its own, and without somebody's backing.
Well, let's not believe it, then.
Who's behind ANA, Mr. Montgomery?
Kosovo authorities, or NATO?
So, what are you going to do about it? If it's first, why don't you go after them?
It could be your government, couldn't it. Sure, US government will take a hands-off position and claim that it had nothing to do with it. But, now we know, don't we?
"Relations with the United States and the EU will deteriorate sharply.
The coalition partners of the DSS will see much of their work and their goals evaporating in front of them and will be confronted with either leaving the government or accepting responsibility for actions which will take them further from their professed reasons for joining the government in the first place. "
The way you said it. As if it's not something positive.
"... it appears as if the majority of EU countries (including all the "heavy hitters) with the support and encouragement of the United States has decided to proceed regardless of the potential consequences".
Apparently, Holland does not belong to this so-called majority of countries. Our foreign minister (Maxim Verhagen) has, on different occasions, critized the US for their intention to recognize Kosovo as an independent state when K-Albanians unilaterally declare independence. The Dutch government prefers further negotations, even if this may take months or years.
Can one assume that, when Montgomery is done writting for B92, he may have a shot at writting for the "National Inquirer"? Or, perhaps, writting Richard Holbrook's biography? Either way, I tend to believe that his writtings will always be well "fertilized" with "fact".
Wow, if you actually twist around country details, the article paints a picture of present day America. Maybe, Monty, you’re trying to tell us something deeper...I just can’t see the bigger picture. Can you shed some light on the bigger picture???
Anyway, my best guess is as follows, contrary to yours and to provide balance;
a) A contingency plan has been developed to protect internationals when the few extremists realise Independence is not coming tomorrow or the next day…Ironically, internationals will be placed in KFOR camps or Serbian villages for protection…If I were a Serb I would prevent such a move…but Serbs, the masters of there own downfall for being tolerant and naive will probably say come and have a drink…Good idea, so the world can see the ferocious, wild, baby eating Serbs as I was once told in New York HQ…
b) Volunteers, I hope so, because serb villages are going to need relief aid and maybe a heater for the ship containers they still live in since the March 2004 displacement.
Oh, you meant these volunteer fighters, its ok, there are enough young men here in Kosovo, including Internationals who are fed up with the Albanian nationalist threats, which come from that insignificant criminal portion that leads Kosovo without the blessing of most Albanians (37% vote, should that be void and re-elections commence.
c) Serbs have every right to challenge the masters of this balkanic, volcanic experiment and yes, the lava is heading for Western Europe.
d) Large protests will take place in Kosovo, just like after the turks failed to address the Albanian criminalities dream of greater Albania (1878), Italians and Germans (1943); Tito (50’s, 60’s and 70’s) until he granted his babies more than autonomy. It is sad that most folks from the west are not considering the actions that will arise south of the Ibar, more so in the albanian communities.
e) Nobody wants to be friends with countries that openly support terrorists, just like in the 90's when the English Foreign Minister to Northern Ireland told Clinton to stay out of the NI isssue. Kosovo provides me with a gauge as to how NI would have turned out if the UN went in under American control.
f) Serbia should have refused to pay Kosovo debts in 2000, People in the Balkans have paid enough to the thieves in Kosovo, when money was diverted into the pockets of criminals and infrastructure poorly maintained.
g) Serbia won’t need to close the borders, anyone with alterior motives will be known, that’s why the criminals choose Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and Croatia as transit.
h) Serbia doesn’t need to cut power, there is no bloody power unless you have a 5.5 Kv generator. Plant C has collapsed and A and B are ready to go, with an 18 month timeline given by the former Japanese Engineer who stated he could not believe this is 21st century Europe. He left after three months in fear of local engineers blowing the place up thru lack of engineering skills.
i) It is only natural like a wheel turning, that Russia will support greater than Yeltsin. America has lost influence and control over global affairs, similar to the roman empire.
j) Damn right they should reinforce borders, if not enter Kosovo. Additionally and my favourite thought, because it is true, Kosovo’s History will repeat itself, it’s a matter of when, where and what scale. And as for the train crash, it can be stopped by EU. Xavier and Oli should take a good look at themselves in the mirror, you can take a stance and rid the albanian population of the cancerous individuals that have just put themselves in positions of Prime minister and other fancy spots. Does EU & US really want to do business with these men. Is this what Europe is building on…if so, the way the EU ascended, the same path will be used for its descent, during such a descent, you will have the pleasure to see the past mistakes and lies that created this ‘Kosovstein’. You’re supposed to have a vision for future generations…or is it more simple that members of European parliament are scared to take on such a huge responsibility of babysitting ‘Kosovstein’…
Monty, come what may, the decisions that take place in the coming months will be met with divine intervention, something pro-independence lobbyists can’t brush away. People will get hurt, that’s a fact, but it will be the last time anybody inside/outside the Balkans tries to redefine other lives through the barrel of a gun. Serbs are outnumbered, but the threat is equivalent to a flock of sheep, take the leader and the rest will either stand scared or runaway.
In Hereford, at a well established barracks, a poster can be seen, with a flock of sheep, it states, “If you can’t lead, then follow, if you can’t follow, f**k off”
EU MEP’s should print the same poster, after which they might create a backbone and deal with serious issues, instead of hiding.
well then, let it happen! we will see what the "US and at least 20 other EU-members" will be responsible for!
what is so sad about it, B92 seems to be very eager to publish those filthy threats and pseudo-arguments....
sad, really sad!
remember, Monty and all of those who want to create the impression of a Serbia "of yesterday"...
you are openly acting against international law!
Serbia would have all the right in the world to respond. not only the moral right,that it has anyway...no, even the legal laws are on Serbia´s side.
how for heaven´s sake do you want to present Serbia as the "bad guy"?
finally, bravo to B92...you´re just showing where your interests are.
Just to help out everyone who finds it difficult to believe and understand that the red line for Kosovar Albanians is not less than full independence and sovereignity for Kosova.
"In fact, it unfortunately seems that many in the West are beginning to view Serbia, as during the Milošević years, as a destabilizing factor in the region. The “honeymoon” following the downfall of Milošević is definitely over."
As a matter of fact, most countries know and treat Serbia just like Milosevic was in power, since he left his"baby" Kostunica in charge.
Kostunica is taking Serbia down the wrong pathway.
Somebody has to stop him before the process of returning back to EU path will become irreversible.
Please, I beg you, get rid of them, and elect a viable pro-western person, I know there are such people in Serbia today, smart enough to rid Serbia of the bad image and get in the EU path.
Jovan, stop bashing B92 man, you are not paying thir salary and neither is K. Koshtunica. Its a free prees company. They try as realisticaly as possible under the circumstances. This is not Communism, so quit while you're ahead.
Well then Mr. Montgomery, seeing as how you are also returning to the Holbrooke years of conveniently placing all responsibility for instability in the Balkans on those pesky Serbs, and denouncing activities that are almost identically practiced and condoned by Albanians in Kosovo and Macedonia, what is your government going to do about it? Everytime you tried to halt Milosevic, he just created more chaos. Everytime some other group cries "self-determination" you weep for their cause. Everytime Serbs cry "self-determination" you tell them to shove it.
So here's the deal: you can continue to berate Serbia as the proverbial scapegoat, and push them farther into Russia's corner, and probably guarantee an SRS victory (to which you'll probably write some article saying "I told you so").
Or your government can try something completely different and radical: it can engage the Serbian government as one populated by human being with legitimate grievances and international interests.
Quit blaming other governments for your government's foreign policy shortcomings, and diplomatic ineptness.
'The problem is that although I see this train wreck comely clearly down the line, I just don’t see how it will be stopped.'
Easy, Monty. It can be stopped by treating Serbs fairly. Is that such a foreign concept to you? Are you so blinded by America's anti-Serbian policies that you can't see the forest for the trees?
Give Serbs the same right to self determination that you apply to all other minorities of ex-Yugoslavia, stop trying to reward ethnic cleansing and terrorism in Kosovo, tell Kosovo albanians that they live in Serbia and that any redrawing of borders has to pass the UN (therefore it can't happen), send Ceku to the Hague for the Medak pocket massacres, send Nasir Oric to the Hague for life for the Bratunac massacres, admit to US support for the ethnic cleansing and genocide of the entire Serb population of Krajina (Clinton, Albright and Holbrooke in the Hague to answer for this), admit that trying to support Ahtisari's greater albania project while at the same time trying to strip Serbs in Bosnia of all autonomy is a dispicable double standard....these are just some of the ways to show that America is 'fair'. None of these have been done, and until they are, there will never be stability in the Balkans.
As a former ambassador to Serbia (Yugoslavia) you should be able to have some positive feeling toward that nation but you do not. Recall the time when you were in Belgrade and your government approved $105 millions for anti Milosevic propaganda and for students resistance "Otpor".
How different was your opinion about Mr. Kostunica then and now. At that time you were absolutely sure that : Zoran Dindic wouldn't win election so full support was given to Prof. Kostunica, the expert in constitutional law.
Now when he proof (as an expert) that all action of your country (more exactly your government) and officials as Burns, McCormack and others is illegal from point of view of international law, you call him NATIONALIST !!!!
You also put intentionally a whole blame on Serbs even Kosovo Albanians are much worse. You wrote:
"Finally, even though the government has been careful to avoid any overt signs of support, the announced formation of a “St. Tsar Lazar Guard” composed of Serbian volunteers to fight to defend Kosovo in the event of an unilateral declaration of independence is obviously designed to raise the possibility of paramilitary units going into Kosovo as they did in Bosnia and Croatia in 1990".
What about ANA in Kosovo patrolling roads with Kalaschnikows and grenade launchers?
Why nobody arrest them as terrorists? Where is KFOR, NATO, UMNIK (the most corrupted organization), EU and all other supporters of independent Kosovo?
Perhaps your propaganda is OK for your uneducated countrymen who even have no idea were the Balkans are but is not convincing any intelligent American nor European.
And last but not least. What is wrong about close tights with Russia? Personally I’ll prefer to cooperate with friends then with enemy. I’ll welcome a Russian investment and friendship more the NATO/EU membership and exploitation.
Monty it must be hard for you, since you could no longer keep Hong-Kong British.
The answer is quiet simple, just like every other European country, those with a right to be "resident", even in Kosovo (i.e., a bone-fide "passport" or "immigration papers") should feel free to stay in Kosovo and even have a vote. While the rest can leave by the same escort provided by the likes of Germany, Italy, France, Spain, England ...etc.
Let the "good" Europeans lead by example and help Serbia enforce Euopean law by helping oversee the removal of illegal immigrants from Kosovo. Maybe even some terrorists, slave-traders, drug-traffikers and so on ...
What is so "rotten-in-Albania" that its citizens leave in droves?
Kosovar-Australian signing off; on the green line.
“...it appears as if the majority of EU countries (including all of the “heavy hitters” with the support and encouragement of the United States has decided to proceed regardless of the potential consequences….
The problem is that although I see this train wreck comely clearly down the line, I just don’t see how it will be stopped.”
Mr. Montgomery,
You clearly have found the solution to avoiding what you view as an impending “train wreck”.
If your prediction is correct and the EU “heavy hitters” with the support and encouragement of the US are going to “proceed regardless of the potential consequences, then it is the EU “heavy hitters” and the US who are driving this train.
If the US and the "heavy hitters" continue with their reckless abandonment by proceeding "regardless of the potential consequences" then it is the EU “heavy hitters” and the US who are responsible for any and all consequences.
Just stop the train and let the US and EU "heavy hitters" get off.
Obviously there's going to be a strong nationalistic backlash in Serbia if the U.S. and EU recognize Kosovo independence.
There would be a strong nationalistic reaction in any country to an assault on its sovregnity and the theft of its territory.
Parties like the DS and G17 Plus went way out on a limb after the NATO bombing to encourage "euro-atlantic integration" and "cooperation with the Hague Tribunal". They said that closer ties with NATO, such as joining the Partnership for Peace, would bring Western friendship and prosperity to Serbia.
The pro-Western parties went out on this limb, but instead of reciprocating, the West is intent on chopping down the tree with them still in it.
If the Serbian electorate sees the West dismembering Serbia and trying to confiscate Serbia's territory, then parties that have consistently taken a strong anti-Western position, such as the Socialists and the Radicals will gain greatly in power and credibility.
How will it look to the Serbian electorate to see the pro-Western parties lose Kosovo, when Milosevic at least managed to get guarantees from the UN Security Council (Resolution 1244), and NATO (at Kumanovo) that Serbia's territorial integrity would be respected?
If I were a Serb I would vote for the Radicals too. It's high time for the West to abandon its practice of "proceeding regardless of the potential consequences".
"Relations with the United States and the EU will deteriorate sharply.
The coalition partners of the DSS will see much of their work and their goals evaporating in front of them and will be confronted with either leaving the government or accepting responsibility for actions which will take them further from their professed reasons for joining the government in the first place. "
The way you said it. As if it's not something positive.
Blame it all on Serbs, why don't you? Too bad that Milosevic died, you could blame it on him. But, never mind you can always declare Kosutnica to be new Milosevic. Tribunal could indict him right now. Why wait?
"The problem is that although I see this train wreck comely clearly down the line, I just don’t see how it will be stopped."
This trainwreck is quite similar as that in 1991. And just as then it is the Western diplomats who are on the train that ignores the rules.
In 1991 Croatia would still have become independent without the Badinter commission and the premature recognition. But Western diplomats preferred to ignore international law and Croatian ethnic cleansing in order to support the side that they had adopted as "friends".
Now we see the same:
- Kosovo will still become independent if we admit that Serbia has the power to block its independence. But Kosovo's politicians will have to do more concessions. Not a bad thing if one takes into account the sorry state of Kosovo's minority rights.
- The two most fundamental things that Bosnia needs to grow together as a country again is trust and acceptance of the present situation as a starting point. The constitution proposed last year was a good way to expand on that - but international support was weak. Now Lajcak is destroying this trust, disturbing the balance of power in Bosnia's institutions and setting the stage for an inevitable confrontation.
The desinformtion that Raffi Gregorian and his Clinton-era friends are spreading in the US nowadays inevitably lead to a disastrous policy.
" At least twenty members of the EU now seem prepared to join the United States in recognizing a unilateral declaration of independence by the Kosovo Albanians."
- please name them as I very much doubt yo can given that it is only UK, France who support the idea and no longer Germany who were always in doubt!
I usually enjoy de-constructing His Excellency William Montgomery's hardly-veiled State Department propaganda, as his articles usually contain something legible that should be rebuked by facts. This does not even comply with that minumum standard. My official reply: 'no comment.'
What sort of future does United States and Europe envision for Serbia if is willing to facilitate a Radical as President (by recognizing Kosovo's independence)?
I guess I could rephrase this question:
Will recognizing Kosovo's independence with a knowledge that this will MOST CERTAINLY, OBVIOUSLY AND COMMON SENSICALLY RADICALIZE SERBIA not show that United States and EU do NOT have the same degree of discomfort with the Radical Party as majority of Serbians do?
You know very well that these are the key questions and not what Kostunica or Tadic are thinking.
You have a unique opportunity to enlighten us about what is REALLY going on. We really don't need this sort of party-line propaganda from yet another source. We can just read your former employer's Press Releases. Boring.
"... it appears as if the majority of EU countries (including all the "heavy hitters) with the support and encouragement of the United States has decided to proceed regardless of the potential consequences".
Apparently, Holland does not belong to this so-called majority of countries. Our foreign minister (Maxim Verhagen) has, on different occasions, critized the US for their intention to recognize Kosovo as an independent state when K-Albanians unilaterally declare independence. The Dutch government prefers further negotations, even if this may take months or years.
Can one assume that, when Montgomery is done writting for B92, he may have a shot at writting for the "National Inquirer"? Or, perhaps, writting Richard Holbrook's biography? Either way, I tend to believe that his writtings will always be well "fertilized" with "fact".
Monty again sees a rock in someone elses yard but not the mountain in his own.
"Finally, even though the government has been careful to avoid any overt signs of support, the announced formation of a “St. Tsar Lazar Guard” composed of Serbian volunteers to fight to defend Kosovo in the event of an unilateral declaration of independence is obviously designed to raise the possibility of paramilitary units going into Kosovo as they did in Bosnia and Croatia in 1990-95.
The hope of the DSS is that these threats and actions will be sufficient to scare key EU countries such as Germany so that they defer any action on Kosovo."
and,
"b) At least some “volunteers” from Serbia proper will go to help the Kosovo Serbs. The government will take a hands-off position and claim that it had nothing to do with it. "
He is writting as if it's obvious that Serbian government is behind those guys, or at least DSS (while they will deny it, of course). Just like Milosevic backed them up, right?
He doesn't believe that there could be some shadowy organization in existance on its own, and without somebody's backing.
Well, let's not believe it, then.
Who's behind ANA, Mr. Montgomery?
Kosovo authorities, or NATO?
So, what are you going to do about it? If it's first, why don't you go after them?
It could be your government, couldn't it. Sure, US government will take a hands-off position and claim that it had nothing to do with it. But, now we know, don't we?
Go ahead Mr. Ambassador, go ahead with the recognition and you will get about 10 million frustrated Serbs in The Balkans. And then, let's see how your government will deal with such crowd.
Wow, if you actually twist around country details, the article paints a picture of present day America. Maybe, Monty, you’re trying to tell us something deeper...I just can’t see the bigger picture. Can you shed some light on the bigger picture???
Anyway, my best guess is as follows, contrary to yours and to provide balance;
a) A contingency plan has been developed to protect internationals when the few extremists realise Independence is not coming tomorrow or the next day…Ironically, internationals will be placed in KFOR camps or Serbian villages for protection…If I were a Serb I would prevent such a move…but Serbs, the masters of there own downfall for being tolerant and naive will probably say come and have a drink…Good idea, so the world can see the ferocious, wild, baby eating Serbs as I was once told in New York HQ…
b) Volunteers, I hope so, because serb villages are going to need relief aid and maybe a heater for the ship containers they still live in since the March 2004 displacement.
Oh, you meant these volunteer fighters, its ok, there are enough young men here in Kosovo, including Internationals who are fed up with the Albanian nationalist threats, which come from that insignificant criminal portion that leads Kosovo without the blessing of most Albanians (37% vote, should that be void and re-elections commence.
c) Serbs have every right to challenge the masters of this balkanic, volcanic experiment and yes, the lava is heading for Western Europe.
d) Large protests will take place in Kosovo, just like after the turks failed to address the Albanian criminalities dream of greater Albania (1878), Italians and Germans (1943); Tito (50’s, 60’s and 70’s) until he granted his babies more than autonomy. It is sad that most folks from the west are not considering the actions that will arise south of the Ibar, more so in the albanian communities.
e) Nobody wants to be friends with countries that openly support terrorists, just like in the 90's when the English Foreign Minister to Northern Ireland told Clinton to stay out of the NI isssue. Kosovo provides me with a gauge as to how NI would have turned out if the UN went in under American control.
f) Serbia should have refused to pay Kosovo debts in 2000, People in the Balkans have paid enough to the thieves in Kosovo, when money was diverted into the pockets of criminals and infrastructure poorly maintained.
g) Serbia won’t need to close the borders, anyone with alterior motives will be known, that’s why the criminals choose Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia and Croatia as transit.
h) Serbia doesn’t need to cut power, there is no bloody power unless you have a 5.5 Kv generator. Plant C has collapsed and A and B are ready to go, with an 18 month timeline given by the former Japanese Engineer who stated he could not believe this is 21st century Europe. He left after three months in fear of local engineers blowing the place up thru lack of engineering skills.
i) It is only natural like a wheel turning, that Russia will support greater than Yeltsin. America has lost influence and control over global affairs, similar to the roman empire.
j) Damn right they should reinforce borders, if not enter Kosovo. Additionally and my favourite thought, because it is true, Kosovo’s History will repeat itself, it’s a matter of when, where and what scale. And as for the train crash, it can be stopped by EU. Xavier and Oli should take a good look at themselves in the mirror, you can take a stance and rid the albanian population of the cancerous individuals that have just put themselves in positions of Prime minister and other fancy spots. Does EU & US really want to do business with these men. Is this what Europe is building on…if so, the way the EU ascended, the same path will be used for its descent, during such a descent, you will have the pleasure to see the past mistakes and lies that created this ‘Kosovstein’. You’re supposed to have a vision for future generations…or is it more simple that members of European parliament are scared to take on such a huge responsibility of babysitting ‘Kosovstein’…
Monty, come what may, the decisions that take place in the coming months will be met with divine intervention, something pro-independence lobbyists can’t brush away. People will get hurt, that’s a fact, but it will be the last time anybody inside/outside the Balkans tries to redefine other lives through the barrel of a gun. Serbs are outnumbered, but the threat is equivalent to a flock of sheep, take the leader and the rest will either stand scared or runaway.
In Hereford, at a well established barracks, a poster can be seen, with a flock of sheep, it states, “If you can’t lead, then follow, if you can’t follow, f**k off”
EU MEP’s should print the same poster, after which they might create a backbone and deal with serious issues, instead of hiding.
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