"Kosovo messy affair, run by criminals"

I hope Wikileaks releases cables on another criminal who is being protected by the US - Milo Djukanovic. The only reason he is not in an Italian jail for cigarette and other smuggling is because Biden told the Italians, hands off, he's our loyal puppet.

"Kosovo is run by people who live off crime...(they have) no other means to support themselves," Timmermans said

Nothing new, common knowledge, and of course Thaci and his buddies didn't pay for their villas from the salary as a prmine minister.

The scary thing is: Now it's 2011 and not 2007, but the latest elections only confirmed the status quo - not much changed.

Agim, perhaps you should read some other website if you find this so boring. Yes, it's tough to read the same material repeatedly. However, is it B92 that is creating the issue or is it the Albanian leadership that creates issues by BEING SO CORRUPT? It's only now that all the corruption is coming to light. Frankly, I find it quite entertaining.

Agim's comments reflect the opinion of the Albanians in Kosovo. Corruption is so pervasive that they don't care and accept it as business as usual. Only the internationals who are supporting Kosovo's economy care because it is our money, not the Albanians, that is being wasted. Sooner or later, the well will run dry and Agim along with all the other Kosovo Albanians will be concerned when it is their money disappearing.

Yes, it is old news about corrupt Pristina, simply another source repeating it. Everyone knows, and knew this, including the K Albanians backers, the US and EU, it's just that it is now openly reported on a daily basis. Ho hum, yawn, lets get on with the prosecutions, and throw those criminals (in Pristina) in prison, where they belong. Entire governments, like the US, and German, and England, and France, etc. should also see some jail time as accomplices and enablers, but sadly, that won't happen.

WikiLeaks called Russia a mafia state, so what's your point?
(ivan, 31 January 2011 16:21)
--
The point dear ivan is that Wikileaks did not call Russia a mafia state but US cables released by Wikileaks. So it is the opinion of a US citizen that Russia is a mafia state, which is not surprising considering that Russia is a big US competitor. However, what is interesting is the US has been supporting the K-Albanian mafia knowingly in KiM, which we have already known for a long long time anyway but the truth is finally coming out.

Well, even Timmermans knew before Kosovo became independent that Kosovo isn't heaven on earth!

I hope we can enjoy more Kosovo related cables from wikileaks in the future.

ivan what is exactly your point - you only seem to come here to write one line stating your hatred for everything Serbia does.

At least have the intelligence to maintain a guise of principle, rather than a pathological desire to harm / condemn Serbia.

Do you have any positive point to make?

Former Dutch State Secretary for European Affairs Frans Timmermans warned the U.S. in late 2007 that Kosovo was "run by people who live off crime.
B92

This is not news.I rest my comment.

This is becoming so boring. Every day we have copy-paste articles, over and over again. When will we see something that we have not seen/read in the past month?
(Agim Kelmendi, 31 January 2011 13:23)

Patience is a virtue.

The leaked cable comes as the reputation of Kosovo's Albanian leaders has been dealt a series of blows, including the human organ trafficking report put together by Council of Europe Special Rapporteur Dick Marty.

Last week, the Guardian newspaper published what it said were leaked NATO documents, that named Kosovo Albanian Prime Minister and former KLA leader Hashim Thaci as one of the "biggest fish" in organized crime in Kosovo.


This is becoming so boring. Every day we have copy-paste articles, over and over again. When will we see something that we have not seen/read in the past month?

"Think about it - if the intention was to remove Thaqi, these reports would have surfaced before the elections."
(nikshala, 31 January 2011 19:40)

No, I think the timing was planned, too. It was done like that simply to give people in Kosovo a (last) chance to clean themselves and their state from those characters - unfortunately, the voters in Kosovo wasted their chance by re-electing Thaci again with more than 30%. Unbelieavable to me, but some people never learn. And now, countries around the world send a strong sign that they are not willing to tolerate criminals and corrupt persons at the head of a (pseudo-) state. If Thaci would care at least a bit for Kosovo and not only his own (and his buddies) pockets, he would simply resign or stay away from all official jobs, like politicians in civilized countries do when those allegations come up

http://rt.com/news/report-kosovo-organ-trafficking/
Everyday there is news about the criminals and crimes in Albanian Kosovo. It is all over the internet from hundreds of sources. B92 is certainly not the only one reporting on this topic. If it (news of Albanian crimes Kosovo) appears more frequently on this site, is that not normal? B92 is after all a Serbian news agency. And I must say, it (B92) is certainly a lot more unbiased than let's say, Koha Ditore.

"WikiLeaks called Russia a mafia state, so what's your point?"
(ivan, 31 January 2011 16:21)

So you think it's strange that the Russian state doesn't support Kosovo as brothers (in crime :-), but Serbia instead?

WikiLeaks called Russia a mafia state, so what's your point?

the man states that albanians can only survive through crime .Priceless.God bless Kosmet.

"Do you have any positive point to make?"
(bganon)

-- If he does, he's far too busy recommending his own post all day to give it much thought.

I only see the remark from Timmermans about Kosovo in the Balkan news media, not in the media of his home country the Netherlands. The newspaper [link] that handles the wikileaks publication has not mention this one as far as I know. Neither did this or some other Dutch media report on the Marty report.
Makes you almost wonder if there is an agenda.
(Joe A, 1 February 2011 00:59)

Sorry, but this is not true. I read about Frans Timmermans on NOS-teletekst (wich only reports about what is most relevant in the news). And no, Kosovo is not in the main headlines here, since it is considered 'far away' by most people.

Marty's accusations were all over the news though... Most interesting in the news are the comments of the readers. Since Srebrenica, people tend to choose the side of Serbia's opposers, but nowaday's more and more 'pro-Serbia-comments' can be read.

The time that the Dutch simply followed American propaganda (in wich Serbia is responsible for all Balkan-trouble) seems to be over. At last!

and wikileaks is simply a source of journalism. infact it is selective journalism at that. wikileaks determines what leaks they wish to expose, and exactly the details of each leak.
so, what wikileaks, a site that amounts to a newspaper, says about russia is as relevant as what any other newspaper says (as you think about attacking on newspaper using another one).
that being said, i wouldn't be surprised if usa classifies russia as a mafia state. remember usa also classified kla as criminal organization, that had interpol warrants issued. one might consider usa a mafia state if you conmsider that their banking-oligarchs are in as much if not more control of their country than are the russian oil tycoons or the kosovarian mafia bosses.

Nikshala I think its a mistake to assume that the 'west' as a whole supported Thaci.

Above all he was well known to be supported by the US. Yes, the US had close relations with more than one Kos Albanian leader, but Thaci was the chosen one.

What we have here is something more complex and it concerns the geopolitical situation too. Specifically Kosovo is no longer a priority for the US administration and at the same time the EU is split into two groups on whether to support US policy (generally) and on Kosovo.

This second group in the EU likes to believe that it has more principles and is more supportive of EU policies, rather than those dictated by the US. Marty's past record of identifying CIA prisons in Europe etc.

Up until now this second group in the EU has been weaker and more silent. I would also say that this group actually cuts accross national boundaries and has support in all institutions.

They have become emboldened by the fact that the US has not attempted to slap down the seemingly new 'standards' policy of the EU on Kosovo. It appears that after a long time on the back foot the moment to move was chosen well.

In many ways though you are right in suspecting that Kosovo (Albanians) are doomed to have these negative stories written day in day out in the short / medium term at least. You are also absolutely correct to reflect that changes should have already been made to eject Kos Alb leaders involved in corruption - however, you also know how hard this would have been to carry out.
More importantly (and unfairly from the Kos Albanian perspective) this 'bolt' has almost come out of nowhere. There was little warning from international allies of Kosovo that this would happen - in other words international policy on Kosovo and the support of certain leaders was as much to blame as Kosovo Albanian inactivity.

You have many Serbians coming on here talking about how US power is slowly receeding, perhaps this really is impacting the EU and the Kosovo policy

Arti, 7% is a lot, especially when you have to come up with that amount of money when funding is cut off. It's not irrelevant. Where would you get the 70,0000,000 Euros from if the West didn't give it to you? And you aren't considering loans and grants. Cut off from those funds, where would your building projects be?

Think about it - if the intention was to remove Thaqi, these reports would have surfaced before the elections."
(nikshala, 31 January 2011 19:40)

I believe the timing is well planned and intentional.

Now, those who elected him can save face and say they were duped by the Snake.

Now, those who elected him can say they were also his victims and demand that the Snake be removed from office.

the political attitude of this person towards albanian cause.
(nikshala, 31 January 2011 19:40)
Recommend (+1)Poor comment (-18)What's this

just look at the + and -, certainly coming from the nationalist k-a around here, and this is a problem, because, unlike you, nobody seems to agree with your statement that the current govnt is corrupted...
As to whether it was planned or not, hard to say, but I can assure you that the tendency in the European politicians's mind is very clear, they finally acknowledge that what happend in the past is not only to be put on Serbian heads but that other factors should be also taken into consideration, and this, I believe,is the key issue of why there is currently a thurst for the ALL truth to be uncovered not only the truth that was created by the United State of Arrogance !
Nobody is and should be above the law not even the US "boys" !!

articles, over and over again. When will we see something that we have not seen/read in the past month?
(Agim Kelmendi, 31 January 2011 13:23)

Are you hinting that you will soon take a break..., oh yes, what a good idea....
By the way, it isn't the same news, now it's coming form a Dutch diplomat, you know, the one that have and are always hindering, with right to a certain extend, the forward moves for Serbia.
So, I guess that this is one more serious step to back up Mr Marty's work.
It is obvious that more and more people will now start talking, why, simply because both the COE and the EP have supported Mr Marty's work.
So, my advice to you, if I may, you better read from now on your local sites, but even there it might starting getting hugly, then just switch off the computer and put/leave your head in the sand....

Bganon - excellent post! The expat Serb nationalists on here who whine about "the West" as though it was a US-controlled empire are missing the point badly. There are in fact several Wests, including an enlightened European one which is where Serbia belongs, geographically, historically and culturally. The fragmentation of the "Western" position on Kosmet illustrates this phenomenon perfectly and is an opportunity Serbia should grab with both hands, rather than sit sulking and waiting for North Korea to ride to the rescue.

When will we see something that we have not seen/read in the past month?
(Agim Kelmendi, 31 January 2011 13:23)

Терпи, козак - гетманом будешь. (The original saying is somewhat different).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=542XpqBy4kY

@American Eagle
"Only the internationals who are supporting Kosovo's economy care because it is our money, not the Albanians, that is being wasted."

Donor money constitues only 7% of Kosova's budget. Statistically irrelevant.


Good job B92, for descending to new lows to keep the propaganda campain going. A week ago another fake KFOR document was "leaked". KFOR came out and denied that such a document existed - did you publish that?

Endri,

Your reply to bganon's comment left me ...puzzled. You suggest that for example Romania's decision not to recognize Kosovo has nothing to do with "high" level principles (real principles?), but instead it has all to do with "low" level principles.

Of the high level principles you don't offer a single clear example. Of the low level principles you do: they seem to be connected to the principle protecting the territorial integrity of a UN member state. Your principle, according to which you divide actors into high level and low level principle consumers, ...puzzles me.

Are you suggesting that if Romania was a high level principle consumer (country) it would offer its Hungarian minority the right to declare independency from Romania, after which Romania would then recognize this new state? Or that high level principle consumer Romania would offer the area inhabited by Hungarian minority the right to join Hungaria?

If this is what you mean then I can see at least one thing: Kosovo belongs to the group of low level consumers as it doesn't offer these rights to its Serbian minority. Kosovo's principles are on a low level.

What more? Well, I'll add here rather reasonable words by Brazil's ambassador to Serbia, Dante Coelho de Lima: "Our fundamental position is that we respect Serbia's territorial integrity. We supported Security Council resolution 1244, under which Kosovo is a part of Serbia. We also think that the principle of self-determination should not run counter to respect for international law".

interesting, indeed.

our dear k-albanian friends are so stuck in their own little narrow world, that they do not realize even the most obvious facts.

the ICJ has not proven anything at all. it´s just the opposite, they kept silent and only said something that doesn´t matter actually.

if the USofA have bent it the way they need it, to make something positive out of this rather funny outcome, I can understand that.

but for you, my dear k-albanian friends, that is all but funny.

the US failed to provide you a postive outcome, and you are falling for a quite optimistic interpretation, without even taking notice of the implications of this failure.

but that´s okay, as far as I am concerned, you are still being duped by your "friends"... and ...given that just yesterday the US of A have let Mr.Mubarak down, although their greatest ally in the region ( after Israel )... shows how easy the US are giving their friends some kick in the ....

and that should make you think about your socalled "friendship" my dear.

sooner or later, the US will let you down, and Serbia will be there to take over.

just a question of time. ...and this is not a threat, it´s a certainty. something quite naturally going to happen.

Well, apparently the government in Serbia, democratically elected by the Serbian people, wants to have talks with this "mafia state". A part of the local Serbian population is also taking part in the parliament of this "mafia state", they might even support the government of Thaci. So, if Serbs themselves don't care that much about the "mafia state" why should the US care?

Endri I am not talking about nation states / governments.

These entities have only political reasons to support one policy or another, usually very little to do with principle.

What I am talking about is individuals at international organisations such as, but not confined to, EU institutions.

Particularly, where there is a tendency to think in terms of Europe, rather than in terms of supporting the policy of one's own government.

Trust me, there is no innacuracy in what I described. Anybody with contacts in international organisations can testify to this.

There is no question of my own personal opinion, or the position of my country influencing what I believe to be true in that regard - therefore I remain what some might call 'moderate'.

"This second group in the EU likes to believe that it has more principles and is more supportive of EU policies, rather than those dictated by the US. Marty's past record of identifying CIA prisons in Europe etc.

Up until now this second group in the EU has been weaker and more silent. I would also say that this group actually cuts accross national boundaries and has support in all institutions."

bganon, you as a moderate commentator can not become equal to fanatics who believe what they want to believe. You know very well what are the reasons behind non-recognition of Kosovo from 5 EU countries. Principles or whatever their mention are for consumers of low levels. Let me tell you what are their true principles they protect:

Spain - basques problem
Greece - Cyprus division
Romania - large Hungarian minority
Slovakia - large Hungarian minority

Those countries can not stick in principles of EU more than the countries which created these principles. That is exactly the reason why US didn't interfere otherwise they would have recognized Kosovo sooner that EU old countries. I hope next time you will stick in your principles. Thnx.

"Well, Olli, the ICJ proved that the interpretation that Brazil, Spain, Slovakia, Romania and of course Serbia and some others give to UNSCR 1244 is wrong according to international law."

No, the ICJ didn't say anything about territorial integrity and states, only that any group/minority is allowed to declare itself independent. Nothing more, nothing less.

And of course it's obvious that the EU memeber states (+ China and Russia) who don't recognize the independence did it because they don't want to open the Pandora's boy and allowing a precedence for their own minorities. Countries without ethnic minorities don't have to fear breakaways. States that did recognize the independence did it mainly for stability reasons and/or to be able to send back all the refugees to the "democratic and multi ethnic Kosovo".

Let alone to talk about China or Venezuela of Hugo Chavez who has very clear pro Russian stance. It remands me a communists say: Proletarians of all nations unite.
(Endri, 2 February 2011 12:31)
====================

I see. Having a pro Russian stance makes you rogue.
Do you realize that you don't make any sense at all? Just because you don't like those countries or people doesn't make them rogue.
US is the biggest threat to global security. In my book that is a rogue country. Wreak havoc all over the world without taking a second to take a breath is not very democratic.

It's all about interests and whose interests we serve or serve us. For now US is serving your interests. One day when they turn on you (like they did on Saddam) you will call the rogue too.

You know I'm right.

"Marty's accusations were all over the news though... Most interesting in the news are the comments of the readers. Since Srebrenica, people tend to choose the side of Serbia's opposers, but nowaday's more and more 'pro-Serbia-comments' can be read. "
(JS, 1 February 2011 11:50)

No, it's a misconception: 'Anti-serbian', 'Pro-serbian'. The same nonsense than the 'anti-independency network' story by Thaci. No, it's simply like that: People in general are 'anti-criminal' and 'pro-justice', so they won't tolerate criminals at the head of states causing trouble, especially not in Europe, no matter if they are called Milosevic or Thaci.

You have continually brought here examples of Brazil, India, China, Slovakia, Venezuela, Vietnam and more rogue countries on how to respect international law.
How about the Japan to counter Brazil which is not comparison whatsoever: “Declaring a recognition of Kosovo, the head Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Masahiko Komura has declared on Tuesday, that such step will bring the contribution to stability strengthening on the Balkans”.
(Endri, 1 February 2011 22:27)
=====================

Which of these countries are rogue and why?
Please back your statement with some facts and explanations.
Don't recognise Kosovo = Rogue
Do recognise Kosovo = Democratic, friendly and fuzzy.

“You have continually brought here examples of Brazil, India, China, Slovakia, Venezuela, Vietnam and more rogue countries on how to respect international law.
How about the Japan to counter Brazil which is not comparison whatsoever: “Declaring a recognition of Kosovo, the head Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Masahiko Komura has declared on Tuesday, that such step will bring the contribution to stability strengthening on the Balkans”.
(Endri, 1 February 2011 22:27)
===…==

Which of these countries are rogue and why?
Please back your statement with some facts and explanations.
Don't recognise Kosovo = Rogue
Do recognise Kosovo = Democratic, friendly and fuzzy.”

Peggy(too)
The countries I have mentioned are not rogue in the sense that they don’t have recognized Kosovo. We are fine with that, each country defends his interests in one way or another. They are rogue in the sense that they strive “to protect the international law” when on the other side they don’t respect the basic rights of their people. The problem with Hungarian minority in Slovakia is well known while I can add here also supporters of Serbia such as M. Gadafi and Hosni Mubarak which is being thrown from power after 32 years of reign. Let alone to talk about China or Venezuela of Hugo Chavez who has very clear pro Russian stance. It remands me a communists say: Proletarians of all nations unite.

Do recognise Kosovo = Democratic, friendly and fuzzy.”

(Endri, 2 February 2011 12:31)

Theres a one word Answer to that. Somalia

All the recent allegations about the Kosovan politicians are not a coincidence and, in my opinion, they are part of a coordinated effort to discredit the current ruling power.

Personally, I do not think this is being done to get rid of Thaqi but only to weaken him so that he becomes more easily manipulated, whether for the coming negotiations with Serbia or something else.

Think about it - if the intention was to remove Thaqi, these reports would have surfaced before the elections. Instead, they started immediately after the elecations. Let us also not forget that the international community was keen on speedy elecations despite the common threat of vote rigging i.e. the international community wanted Thaqi to win.

I am not sure what international circles are instigators of this political wave, but at the same time, I also think that we albanians only have ourselves to blame for the recent PR disaster for re-electing some politicians who are blatantly corrupt.

Any competent politicians who was not busy trying to figure out which tender is most profitable for him and his family, would have anticipated and prepared for the negative ripples of a report by Marty especially considering the political attitude of this person towards albanian cause.

I only see the remark from Timmermans about Kosovo in the Balkan news media, not in the media of his home country the Netherlands. The newspaper www.nrc.nl that handles the wikileaks publication has not mention this one as far as I know. Neither did this or some other Dutch media report on the Marty report.
Makes you almost wonder if there is an agenda.

“Your reply to bganon's comment left me ...puzzled. You suggest that for example Romania's decision not to recognize Kosovo has nothing to do with "high" level principles (real principles?), but instead it has all to do with "low" level principles.”
My answer was as simple as that: Romanians themselves have made clear the reason why they don’t recognize Kosovo (even many times here on that forum). Not because they decide to stick in so called principles of territorial integrity but to keep low profile of Hungarian minority which continuously strives for more rights in Romania. There are in EU more civilized and democratic country than Romania, who know what territorial integrity means and how it is respected, the lessons from Romania are just for Romania and not to be served here as Serbs suit them better. Just guess who consumes such explanation from Romania which 20 years ago was pure communisms as my country Albania.
“Of the high level principles you don't offer a single clear example. Of the low level principles you do: they seem to be connected to the principle protecting the territorial integrity of a UN member state. Your principle, according to which you divide actors into high level and low level principle consumers, ...puzzles me.”
The principles of so called protection of territorial integrity don’t hold water anymore. You protect your territory when you are attacked!!! Who attacked Serbia to protect against??? Its citizens expelled from their home demolished to the ground!! More than territorial integrity are interests of individual countries which they care of, the rest is just rhetoric.
“Are you suggesting that if Romania was a high level principle consumer (country) it would offer its Hungarian minority the right to declare independency from Romania, after which Romania would then recognize this new state? Or that high level principle consumer Romania would offer the area inhabited by Hungarian minority the right to join Hungaria?”
I didn’t say anything about independence of Hungarian minority or join Hungaria whatsoever. But if Romania in order to “protect its territorial integrity” would attack them with 60000 soldiers, criminals, mercenaries whatever, expel and kill them as Serbs did in Kosovo I am sure that they could get independence in less time than Kosovo.
“If this is what you mean then I can see at least one thing: Kosovo belongs to the group of low level consumers as it doesn't offer these rights to its Serbian minority. Kosovo's principles are on a low level.”
For you information, Serbs in Kosovo have more rights than any minority group in the world. Consult plenty of docs in INT if you have any doubt. You can make as many assumption as you want. Put the foots on the ground first.

“What more? Well, I'll add here rather reasonable words by Brazil's ambassador to Serbia, Dante Coelho de Lima: "Our fundamental position is that we respect Serbia's territorial integrity. We supported Security Council resolution 1244, under which Kosovo is a part of Serbia. We also think that the principle of self-determination should not run counter to respect for international law".”
I would appreciate here to see what is the relation between EU issues and Brazil which is neither close nor relevant in this topic. You have continually brought here examples of Brazil, India, China, Slovakia, Venezuela, Vietnam and more rogue countries on how to respect international law.
How about the Japan to counter Brazil which is not comparison whatsoever: “Declaring a recognition of Kosovo, the head Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Masahiko Komura has declared on Tuesday, that such step will bring the contribution to stability strengthening on the Balkans”.

Bganon - excellent post! The expat Serb nationalists on here who whine about "the West" as though it was a US-controlled empire are missing the point badly
=========================

US does control the west. It's obvious. Cannot believe you can't see that whatever decision the US makes the usual posse is always behind them.
Sending their young men and women to die for American dreams proves just how controlled the west is by them.

"What more? Well, I'll add here rather reasonable words by Brazil's ambassador to Serbia, Dante Coelho de Lima: "Our fundamental position is that we respect Serbia's territorial integrity. We supported Security Council resolution 1244, under which Kosovo is a part of Serbia. We also think that the principle of self-determination should not run counter to respect for international law".
(Olli, 1 February 2011 19:35)

Well, Olli, the ICJ proved that the interpretation that Brazil, Spain, Slovakia, Romania and of course Serbia and some others give to UNSCR 1244 is wrong according to international law. Remember, at the end of everything they were on the losing side, their arguments did not convince the judges, in other words the judges thought those arguments were not according to international law. Those words of the ambassador might sound reasonable to you but they are wrong according to international law. Again, wrong according to international law.

(JS, 2 February 2011 12:10)
NL even exports these media-formulas to other countries. Like Big Brother for instance, or what other sh*t they come up with. People all around the world have turned into mindless sheep.
Television, the drug of a nation.

Dutch-I am so sorry …in front of your eyes, in front of your coward soldiers …in front of the world where massacred 8000 -Bosnian Muslims, now you tell how bad is Kosovo ….you are so dump ,

It looks like the tandem Thaçi (not Thaqi OK??? is it possible that 2 million KA don't know to read and write correctly in Albanian??????) and Limaj not only do not have the support of the international community but it seems that there is something more there.

The timing is perfect: we do not interfere in during the elections time (we hope you lose) but even if you win you won’t become a PM/minister as some info will leak in wiki...

Is any of this information new or news to anyone ?? Europe and US know exactly what they are dealing with case closed !! ok THAT OUT OF THE WAY....NOW WHAT ARE THEY GOING TO DO ABOUT IT ??? is what really matters

@ Joe A. I'm afraid you are right. If the world would know about the level of the Dutch media nowadays (only a few newspapers and TV-programs excluded), they wouldn't take us so serious. The worst part is the fact that a lot of people know very well how to avoid these few exceptions and, as a result, can't even mention, let's say, the capital of Belgium (let alone the one of Serbia). They do know about all the participants of programs like X-factor though (and what they were wearing yesterday evening). And when you think the level can't possibly go further down, something happens that proves that it can! But hey, that is another horrible story...

"Well, Olli, the ICJ proved that the interpretation that Brazil, Spain, Slovakia, Romania and of course Serbia and some others give to UNSCR 1244 is wrong according to international law."

No, the ICJ didn't say anything about territorial integrity
(Top, 2 February 2011 13:24)

Indeed, the discussion above is not about territorial integrity... it is about 1244 and the ICJ disagreed with the written statements of Brazil, Spain, Slovakia, Romania and Serbia aboout the interpretation of 1244

You can read their statements here:

http://www.icj-cij.org/docket/index.php?p1=3&p2=4&k=21&case=141&code=kos&p3=1

(JS, 1 February 2011 11:50)
I only read about the Kosovo organ trade in 'De Telegraaf' and Geenstijl. There was no mention of it in Trouw, De Volkskrant or NRC. I don't watch television, don't even have one so I can't comment on it being on TV. Yes, Kosovo is far away from NL. People prefer to watch mindless programmes like "farmer looks for woman" or the latest BS talent show.

Sending their young men and women to die for American dreams proves just how controlled the west is by them.
(Peggy, 3 February 2011 13:04)

Well, American AND their dreams... those who blew up in London are from that area where their young men and women are fighting. Rest assured that Serbia too will send their young men and women when some fanatic does the same in Belgrade... hopefully will not be too late for Serbia then.

Just because A and B have common interests or are under a common threat does not mean that A is a servant of B or viceversa.

The leaked cable comes as the reputation of Kosovo's Albanian leaders has been dealt a series of blows, including the human organ trafficking report put together by Council of Europe Special Rapporteur Dick Marty.

Last week, the Guardian newspaper published what it said were leaked NATO documents, that named Kosovo Albanian Prime Minister and former KLA leader Hashim Thaci as one of the "biggest fish" in organized crime in Kosovo.


This is becoming so boring. Every day we have copy-paste articles, over and over again. When will we see something that we have not seen/read in the past month?

WikiLeaks called Russia a mafia state, so what's your point?

@American Eagle
"Only the internationals who are supporting Kosovo's economy care because it is our money, not the Albanians, that is being wasted."

Donor money constitues only 7% of Kosova's budget. Statistically irrelevant.


Good job B92, for descending to new lows to keep the propaganda campain going. A week ago another fake KFOR document was "leaked". KFOR came out and denied that such a document existed - did you publish that?

All the recent allegations about the Kosovan politicians are not a coincidence and, in my opinion, they are part of a coordinated effort to discredit the current ruling power.

Personally, I do not think this is being done to get rid of Thaqi but only to weaken him so that he becomes more easily manipulated, whether for the coming negotiations with Serbia or something else.

Think about it - if the intention was to remove Thaqi, these reports would have surfaced before the elections. Instead, they started immediately after the elecations. Let us also not forget that the international community was keen on speedy elecations despite the common threat of vote rigging i.e. the international community wanted Thaqi to win.

I am not sure what international circles are instigators of this political wave, but at the same time, I also think that we albanians only have ourselves to blame for the recent PR disaster for re-electing some politicians who are blatantly corrupt.

Any competent politicians who was not busy trying to figure out which tender is most profitable for him and his family, would have anticipated and prepared for the negative ripples of a report by Marty especially considering the political attitude of this person towards albanian cause.

Well, apparently the government in Serbia, democratically elected by the Serbian people, wants to have talks with this "mafia state". A part of the local Serbian population is also taking part in the parliament of this "mafia state", they might even support the government of Thaci. So, if Serbs themselves don't care that much about the "mafia state" why should the US care?

ivan what is exactly your point - you only seem to come here to write one line stating your hatred for everything Serbia does.

At least have the intelligence to maintain a guise of principle, rather than a pathological desire to harm / condemn Serbia.

Do you have any positive point to make?

Agim, perhaps you should read some other website if you find this so boring. Yes, it's tough to read the same material repeatedly. However, is it B92 that is creating the issue or is it the Albanian leadership that creates issues by BEING SO CORRUPT? It's only now that all the corruption is coming to light. Frankly, I find it quite entertaining.

WikiLeaks called Russia a mafia state, so what's your point?
(ivan, 31 January 2011 16:21)
--
The point dear ivan is that Wikileaks did not call Russia a mafia state but US cables released by Wikileaks. So it is the opinion of a US citizen that Russia is a mafia state, which is not surprising considering that Russia is a big US competitor. However, what is interesting is the US has been supporting the K-Albanian mafia knowingly in KiM, which we have already known for a long long time anyway but the truth is finally coming out.

"Kosovo is run by people who live off crime...(they have) no other means to support themselves," Timmermans said

Nothing new, common knowledge, and of course Thaci and his buddies didn't pay for their villas from the salary as a prmine minister.

The scary thing is: Now it's 2011 and not 2007, but the latest elections only confirmed the status quo - not much changed.

Former Dutch State Secretary for European Affairs Frans Timmermans warned the U.S. in late 2007 that Kosovo was "run by people who live off crime.
B92

This is not news.I rest my comment.

"WikiLeaks called Russia a mafia state, so what's your point?"
(ivan, 31 January 2011 16:21)

So you think it's strange that the Russian state doesn't support Kosovo as brothers (in crime :-), but Serbia instead?

Agim's comments reflect the opinion of the Albanians in Kosovo. Corruption is so pervasive that they don't care and accept it as business as usual. Only the internationals who are supporting Kosovo's economy care because it is our money, not the Albanians, that is being wasted. Sooner or later, the well will run dry and Agim along with all the other Kosovo Albanians will be concerned when it is their money disappearing.

“Your reply to bganon's comment left me ...puzzled. You suggest that for example Romania's decision not to recognize Kosovo has nothing to do with "high" level principles (real principles?), but instead it has all to do with "low" level principles.”
My answer was as simple as that: Romanians themselves have made clear the reason why they don’t recognize Kosovo (even many times here on that forum). Not because they decide to stick in so called principles of territorial integrity but to keep low profile of Hungarian minority which continuously strives for more rights in Romania. There are in EU more civilized and democratic country than Romania, who know what territorial integrity means and how it is respected, the lessons from Romania are just for Romania and not to be served here as Serbs suit them better. Just guess who consumes such explanation from Romania which 20 years ago was pure communisms as my country Albania.
“Of the high level principles you don't offer a single clear example. Of the low level principles you do: they seem to be connected to the principle protecting the territorial integrity of a UN member state. Your principle, according to which you divide actors into high level and low level principle consumers, ...puzzles me.”
The principles of so called protection of territorial integrity don’t hold water anymore. You protect your territory when you are attacked!!! Who attacked Serbia to protect against??? Its citizens expelled from their home demolished to the ground!! More than territorial integrity are interests of individual countries which they care of, the rest is just rhetoric.
“Are you suggesting that if Romania was a high level principle consumer (country) it would offer its Hungarian minority the right to declare independency from Romania, after which Romania would then recognize this new state? Or that high level principle consumer Romania would offer the area inhabited by Hungarian minority the right to join Hungaria?”
I didn’t say anything about independence of Hungarian minority or join Hungaria whatsoever. But if Romania in order to “protect its territorial integrity” would attack them with 60000 soldiers, criminals, mercenaries whatever, expel and kill them as Serbs did in Kosovo I am sure that they could get independence in less time than Kosovo.
“If this is what you mean then I can see at least one thing: Kosovo belongs to the group of low level consumers as it doesn't offer these rights to its Serbian minority. Kosovo's principles are on a low level.”
For you information, Serbs in Kosovo have more rights than any minority group in the world. Consult plenty of docs in INT if you have any doubt. You can make as many assumption as you want. Put the foots on the ground first.

“What more? Well, I'll add here rather reasonable words by Brazil's ambassador to Serbia, Dante Coelho de Lima: "Our fundamental position is that we respect Serbia's territorial integrity. We supported Security Council resolution 1244, under which Kosovo is a part of Serbia. We also think that the principle of self-determination should not run counter to respect for international law".”
I would appreciate here to see what is the relation between EU issues and Brazil which is neither close nor relevant in this topic. You have continually brought here examples of Brazil, India, China, Slovakia, Venezuela, Vietnam and more rogue countries on how to respect international law.
How about the Japan to counter Brazil which is not comparison whatsoever: “Declaring a recognition of Kosovo, the head Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Masahiko Komura has declared on Tuesday, that such step will bring the contribution to stability strengthening on the Balkans”.

Bganon - excellent post! The expat Serb nationalists on here who whine about "the West" as though it was a US-controlled empire are missing the point badly. There are in fact several Wests, including an enlightened European one which is where Serbia belongs, geographically, historically and culturally. The fragmentation of the "Western" position on Kosmet illustrates this phenomenon perfectly and is an opportunity Serbia should grab with both hands, rather than sit sulking and waiting for North Korea to ride to the rescue.

This is becoming so boring. Every day we have copy-paste articles, over and over again. When will we see something that we have not seen/read in the past month?
(Agim Kelmendi, 31 January 2011 13:23)

Patience is a virtue.

"This second group in the EU likes to believe that it has more principles and is more supportive of EU policies, rather than those dictated by the US. Marty's past record of identifying CIA prisons in Europe etc.

Up until now this second group in the EU has been weaker and more silent. I would also say that this group actually cuts accross national boundaries and has support in all institutions."

bganon, you as a moderate commentator can not become equal to fanatics who believe what they want to believe. You know very well what are the reasons behind non-recognition of Kosovo from 5 EU countries. Principles or whatever their mention are for consumers of low levels. Let me tell you what are their true principles they protect:

Spain - basques problem
Greece - Cyprus division
Romania - large Hungarian minority
Slovakia - large Hungarian minority

Those countries can not stick in principles of EU more than the countries which created these principles. That is exactly the reason why US didn't interfere otherwise they would have recognized Kosovo sooner that EU old countries. I hope next time you will stick in your principles. Thnx.

Well, even Timmermans knew before Kosovo became independent that Kosovo isn't heaven on earth!

I hope we can enjoy more Kosovo related cables from wikileaks in the future.

I hope Wikileaks releases cables on another criminal who is being protected by the US - Milo Djukanovic. The only reason he is not in an Italian jail for cigarette and other smuggling is because Biden told the Italians, hands off, he's our loyal puppet.

and wikileaks is simply a source of journalism. infact it is selective journalism at that. wikileaks determines what leaks they wish to expose, and exactly the details of each leak.
so, what wikileaks, a site that amounts to a newspaper, says about russia is as relevant as what any other newspaper says (as you think about attacking on newspaper using another one).
that being said, i wouldn't be surprised if usa classifies russia as a mafia state. remember usa also classified kla as criminal organization, that had interpol warrants issued. one might consider usa a mafia state if you conmsider that their banking-oligarchs are in as much if not more control of their country than are the russian oil tycoons or the kosovarian mafia bosses.

When will we see something that we have not seen/read in the past month?
(Agim Kelmendi, 31 January 2011 13:23)

Терпи, козак - гетманом будешь. (The original saying is somewhat different).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=542XpqBy4kY

Yes, it is old news about corrupt Pristina, simply another source repeating it. Everyone knows, and knew this, including the K Albanians backers, the US and EU, it's just that it is now openly reported on a daily basis. Ho hum, yawn, lets get on with the prosecutions, and throw those criminals (in Pristina) in prison, where they belong. Entire governments, like the US, and German, and England, and France, etc. should also see some jail time as accomplices and enablers, but sadly, that won't happen.

I only see the remark from Timmermans about Kosovo in the Balkan news media, not in the media of his home country the Netherlands. The newspaper www.nrc.nl that handles the wikileaks publication has not mention this one as far as I know. Neither did this or some other Dutch media report on the Marty report.
Makes you almost wonder if there is an agenda.

"What more? Well, I'll add here rather reasonable words by Brazil's ambassador to Serbia, Dante Coelho de Lima: "Our fundamental position is that we respect Serbia's territorial integrity. We supported Security Council resolution 1244, under which Kosovo is a part of Serbia. We also think that the principle of self-determination should not run counter to respect for international law".
(Olli, 1 February 2011 19:35)

Well, Olli, the ICJ proved that the interpretation that Brazil, Spain, Slovakia, Romania and of course Serbia and some others give to UNSCR 1244 is wrong according to international law. Remember, at the end of everything they were on the losing side, their arguments did not convince the judges, in other words the judges thought those arguments were not according to international law. Those words of the ambassador might sound reasonable to you but they are wrong according to international law. Again, wrong according to international law.

Dutch-I am so sorry …in front of your eyes, in front of your coward soldiers …in front of the world where massacred 8000 -Bosnian Muslims, now you tell how bad is Kosovo ….you are so dump ,

the man states that albanians can only survive through crime .Priceless.God bless Kosmet.

You have continually brought here examples of Brazil, India, China, Slovakia, Venezuela, Vietnam and more rogue countries on how to respect international law.
How about the Japan to counter Brazil which is not comparison whatsoever: “Declaring a recognition of Kosovo, the head Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Masahiko Komura has declared on Tuesday, that such step will bring the contribution to stability strengthening on the Balkans”.
(Endri, 1 February 2011 22:27)
=====================

Which of these countries are rogue and why?
Please back your statement with some facts and explanations.
Don't recognise Kosovo = Rogue
Do recognise Kosovo = Democratic, friendly and fuzzy.

“You have continually brought here examples of Brazil, India, China, Slovakia, Venezuela, Vietnam and more rogue countries on how to respect international law.
How about the Japan to counter Brazil which is not comparison whatsoever: “Declaring a recognition of Kosovo, the head Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Masahiko Komura has declared on Tuesday, that such step will bring the contribution to stability strengthening on the Balkans”.
(Endri, 1 February 2011 22:27)
===…==

Which of these countries are rogue and why?
Please back your statement with some facts and explanations.
Don't recognise Kosovo = Rogue
Do recognise Kosovo = Democratic, friendly and fuzzy.”

Peggy(too)
The countries I have mentioned are not rogue in the sense that they don’t have recognized Kosovo. We are fine with that, each country defends his interests in one way or another. They are rogue in the sense that they strive “to protect the international law” when on the other side they don’t respect the basic rights of their people. The problem with Hungarian minority in Slovakia is well known while I can add here also supporters of Serbia such as M. Gadafi and Hosni Mubarak which is being thrown from power after 32 years of reign. Let alone to talk about China or Venezuela of Hugo Chavez who has very clear pro Russian stance. It remands me a communists say: Proletarians of all nations unite.

the political attitude of this person towards albanian cause.
(nikshala, 31 January 2011 19:40)
Recommend (+1)Poor comment (-18)What's this

just look at the + and -, certainly coming from the nationalist k-a around here, and this is a problem, because, unlike you, nobody seems to agree with your statement that the current govnt is corrupted...
As to whether it was planned or not, hard to say, but I can assure you that the tendency in the European politicians's mind is very clear, they finally acknowledge that what happend in the past is not only to be put on Serbian heads but that other factors should be also taken into consideration, and this, I believe,is the key issue of why there is currently a thurst for the ALL truth to be uncovered not only the truth that was created by the United State of Arrogance !
Nobody is and should be above the law not even the US "boys" !!

Nikshala I think its a mistake to assume that the 'west' as a whole supported Thaci.

Above all he was well known to be supported by the US. Yes, the US had close relations with more than one Kos Albanian leader, but Thaci was the chosen one.

What we have here is something more complex and it concerns the geopolitical situation too. Specifically Kosovo is no longer a priority for the US administration and at the same time the EU is split into two groups on whether to support US policy (generally) and on Kosovo.

This second group in the EU likes to believe that it has more principles and is more supportive of EU policies, rather than those dictated by the US. Marty's past record of identifying CIA prisons in Europe etc.

Up until now this second group in the EU has been weaker and more silent. I would also say that this group actually cuts accross national boundaries and has support in all institutions.

They have become emboldened by the fact that the US has not attempted to slap down the seemingly new 'standards' policy of the EU on Kosovo. It appears that after a long time on the back foot the moment to move was chosen well.

In many ways though you are right in suspecting that Kosovo (Albanians) are doomed to have these negative stories written day in day out in the short / medium term at least. You are also absolutely correct to reflect that changes should have already been made to eject Kos Alb leaders involved in corruption - however, you also know how hard this would have been to carry out.
More importantly (and unfairly from the Kos Albanian perspective) this 'bolt' has almost come out of nowhere. There was little warning from international allies of Kosovo that this would happen - in other words international policy on Kosovo and the support of certain leaders was as much to blame as Kosovo Albanian inactivity.

You have many Serbians coming on here talking about how US power is slowly receeding, perhaps this really is impacting the EU and the Kosovo policy

interesting, indeed.

our dear k-albanian friends are so stuck in their own little narrow world, that they do not realize even the most obvious facts.

the ICJ has not proven anything at all. it´s just the opposite, they kept silent and only said something that doesn´t matter actually.

if the USofA have bent it the way they need it, to make something positive out of this rather funny outcome, I can understand that.

but for you, my dear k-albanian friends, that is all but funny.

the US failed to provide you a postive outcome, and you are falling for a quite optimistic interpretation, without even taking notice of the implications of this failure.

but that´s okay, as far as I am concerned, you are still being duped by your "friends"... and ...given that just yesterday the US of A have let Mr.Mubarak down, although their greatest ally in the region ( after Israel )... shows how easy the US are giving their friends some kick in the ....

and that should make you think about your socalled "friendship" my dear.

sooner or later, the US will let you down, and Serbia will be there to take over.

just a question of time. ...and this is not a threat, it´s a certainty. something quite naturally going to happen.

"Think about it - if the intention was to remove Thaqi, these reports would have surfaced before the elections."
(nikshala, 31 January 2011 19:40)

No, I think the timing was planned, too. It was done like that simply to give people in Kosovo a (last) chance to clean themselves and their state from those characters - unfortunately, the voters in Kosovo wasted their chance by re-electing Thaci again with more than 30%. Unbelieavable to me, but some people never learn. And now, countries around the world send a strong sign that they are not willing to tolerate criminals and corrupt persons at the head of a (pseudo-) state. If Thaci would care at least a bit for Kosovo and not only his own (and his buddies) pockets, he would simply resign or stay away from all official jobs, like politicians in civilized countries do when those allegations come up

Arti, 7% is a lot, especially when you have to come up with that amount of money when funding is cut off. It's not irrelevant. Where would you get the 70,0000,000 Euros from if the West didn't give it to you? And you aren't considering loans and grants. Cut off from those funds, where would your building projects be?

Is any of this information new or news to anyone ?? Europe and US know exactly what they are dealing with case closed !! ok THAT OUT OF THE WAY....NOW WHAT ARE THEY GOING TO DO ABOUT IT ??? is what really matters

"Well, Olli, the ICJ proved that the interpretation that Brazil, Spain, Slovakia, Romania and of course Serbia and some others give to UNSCR 1244 is wrong according to international law."

No, the ICJ didn't say anything about territorial integrity and states, only that any group/minority is allowed to declare itself independent. Nothing more, nothing less.

And of course it's obvious that the EU memeber states (+ China and Russia) who don't recognize the independence did it because they don't want to open the Pandora's boy and allowing a precedence for their own minorities. Countries without ethnic minorities don't have to fear breakaways. States that did recognize the independence did it mainly for stability reasons and/or to be able to send back all the refugees to the "democratic and multi ethnic Kosovo".

Think about it - if the intention was to remove Thaqi, these reports would have surfaced before the elections."
(nikshala, 31 January 2011 19:40)

I believe the timing is well planned and intentional.

Now, those who elected him can save face and say they were duped by the Snake.

Now, those who elected him can say they were also his victims and demand that the Snake be removed from office.

"Marty's accusations were all over the news though... Most interesting in the news are the comments of the readers. Since Srebrenica, people tend to choose the side of Serbia's opposers, but nowaday's more and more 'pro-Serbia-comments' can be read. "
(JS, 1 February 2011 11:50)

No, it's a misconception: 'Anti-serbian', 'Pro-serbian'. The same nonsense than the 'anti-independency network' story by Thaci. No, it's simply like that: People in general are 'anti-criminal' and 'pro-justice', so they won't tolerate criminals at the head of states causing trouble, especially not in Europe, no matter if they are called Milosevic or Thaci.

Endri,

Your reply to bganon's comment left me ...puzzled. You suggest that for example Romania's decision not to recognize Kosovo has nothing to do with "high" level principles (real principles?), but instead it has all to do with "low" level principles.

Of the high level principles you don't offer a single clear example. Of the low level principles you do: they seem to be connected to the principle protecting the territorial integrity of a UN member state. Your principle, according to which you divide actors into high level and low level principle consumers, ...puzzles me.

Are you suggesting that if Romania was a high level principle consumer (country) it would offer its Hungarian minority the right to declare independency from Romania, after which Romania would then recognize this new state? Or that high level principle consumer Romania would offer the area inhabited by Hungarian minority the right to join Hungaria?

If this is what you mean then I can see at least one thing: Kosovo belongs to the group of low level consumers as it doesn't offer these rights to its Serbian minority. Kosovo's principles are on a low level.

What more? Well, I'll add here rather reasonable words by Brazil's ambassador to Serbia, Dante Coelho de Lima: "Our fundamental position is that we respect Serbia's territorial integrity. We supported Security Council resolution 1244, under which Kosovo is a part of Serbia. We also think that the principle of self-determination should not run counter to respect for international law".

Let alone to talk about China or Venezuela of Hugo Chavez who has very clear pro Russian stance. It remands me a communists say: Proletarians of all nations unite.
(Endri, 2 February 2011 12:31)
====================

I see. Having a pro Russian stance makes you rogue.
Do you realize that you don't make any sense at all? Just because you don't like those countries or people doesn't make them rogue.
US is the biggest threat to global security. In my book that is a rogue country. Wreak havoc all over the world without taking a second to take a breath is not very democratic.

It's all about interests and whose interests we serve or serve us. For now US is serving your interests. One day when they turn on you (like they did on Saddam) you will call the rogue too.

You know I'm right.

http://rt.com/news/report-kosovo-organ-trafficking/
Everyday there is news about the criminals and crimes in Albanian Kosovo. It is all over the internet from hundreds of sources. B92 is certainly not the only one reporting on this topic. If it (news of Albanian crimes Kosovo) appears more frequently on this site, is that not normal? B92 is after all a Serbian news agency. And I must say, it (B92) is certainly a lot more unbiased than let's say, Koha Ditore.

I only see the remark from Timmermans about Kosovo in the Balkan news media, not in the media of his home country the Netherlands. The newspaper [link] that handles the wikileaks publication has not mention this one as far as I know. Neither did this or some other Dutch media report on the Marty report.
Makes you almost wonder if there is an agenda.
(Joe A, 1 February 2011 00:59)

Sorry, but this is not true. I read about Frans Timmermans on NOS-teletekst (wich only reports about what is most relevant in the news). And no, Kosovo is not in the main headlines here, since it is considered 'far away' by most people.

Marty's accusations were all over the news though... Most interesting in the news are the comments of the readers. Since Srebrenica, people tend to choose the side of Serbia's opposers, but nowaday's more and more 'pro-Serbia-comments' can be read.

The time that the Dutch simply followed American propaganda (in wich Serbia is responsible for all Balkan-trouble) seems to be over. At last!

Bganon - excellent post! The expat Serb nationalists on here who whine about "the West" as though it was a US-controlled empire are missing the point badly
=========================

US does control the west. It's obvious. Cannot believe you can't see that whatever decision the US makes the usual posse is always behind them.
Sending their young men and women to die for American dreams proves just how controlled the west is by them.

articles, over and over again. When will we see something that we have not seen/read in the past month?
(Agim Kelmendi, 31 January 2011 13:23)

Are you hinting that you will soon take a break..., oh yes, what a good idea....
By the way, it isn't the same news, now it's coming form a Dutch diplomat, you know, the one that have and are always hindering, with right to a certain extend, the forward moves for Serbia.
So, I guess that this is one more serious step to back up Mr Marty's work.
It is obvious that more and more people will now start talking, why, simply because both the COE and the EP have supported Mr Marty's work.
So, my advice to you, if I may, you better read from now on your local sites, but even there it might starting getting hugly, then just switch off the computer and put/leave your head in the sand....

It looks like the tandem Thaçi (not Thaqi OK??? is it possible that 2 million KA don't know to read and write correctly in Albanian??????) and Limaj not only do not have the support of the international community but it seems that there is something more there.

The timing is perfect: we do not interfere in during the elections time (we hope you lose) but even if you win you won’t become a PM/minister as some info will leak in wiki...

Do recognise Kosovo = Democratic, friendly and fuzzy.”

(Endri, 2 February 2011 12:31)

Theres a one word Answer to that. Somalia

"Do you have any positive point to make?"
(bganon)

-- If he does, he's far too busy recommending his own post all day to give it much thought.

Endri I am not talking about nation states / governments.

These entities have only political reasons to support one policy or another, usually very little to do with principle.

What I am talking about is individuals at international organisations such as, but not confined to, EU institutions.

Particularly, where there is a tendency to think in terms of Europe, rather than in terms of supporting the policy of one's own government.

Trust me, there is no innacuracy in what I described. Anybody with contacts in international organisations can testify to this.

There is no question of my own personal opinion, or the position of my country influencing what I believe to be true in that regard - therefore I remain what some might call 'moderate'.

Sending their young men and women to die for American dreams proves just how controlled the west is by them.
(Peggy, 3 February 2011 13:04)

Well, American AND their dreams... those who blew up in London are from that area where their young men and women are fighting. Rest assured that Serbia too will send their young men and women when some fanatic does the same in Belgrade... hopefully will not be too late for Serbia then.

Just because A and B have common interests or are under a common threat does not mean that A is a servant of B or viceversa.

@ Joe A. I'm afraid you are right. If the world would know about the level of the Dutch media nowadays (only a few newspapers and TV-programs excluded), they wouldn't take us so serious. The worst part is the fact that a lot of people know very well how to avoid these few exceptions and, as a result, can't even mention, let's say, the capital of Belgium (let alone the one of Serbia). They do know about all the participants of programs like X-factor though (and what they were wearing yesterday evening). And when you think the level can't possibly go further down, something happens that proves that it can! But hey, that is another horrible story...

"Well, Olli, the ICJ proved that the interpretation that Brazil, Spain, Slovakia, Romania and of course Serbia and some others give to UNSCR 1244 is wrong according to international law."

No, the ICJ didn't say anything about territorial integrity
(Top, 2 February 2011 13:24)

Indeed, the discussion above is not about territorial integrity... it is about 1244 and the ICJ disagreed with the written statements of Brazil, Spain, Slovakia, Romania and Serbia aboout the interpretation of 1244

You can read their statements here:

http://www.icj-cij.org/docket/index.php?p1=3&p2=4&k=21&case=141&code=kos&p3=1

(JS, 2 February 2011 12:10)
NL even exports these media-formulas to other countries. Like Big Brother for instance, or what other sh*t they come up with. People all around the world have turned into mindless sheep.
Television, the drug of a nation.

(JS, 1 February 2011 11:50)
I only read about the Kosovo organ trade in 'De Telegraaf' and Geenstijl. There was no mention of it in Trouw, De Volkskrant or NRC. I don't watch television, don't even have one so I can't comment on it being on TV. Yes, Kosovo is far away from NL. People prefer to watch mindless programmes like "farmer looks for woman" or the latest BS talent show.