Kosovo, Serbia: Authorities close Brnjak and Jarinje border crossing points to traffic July 31

Event

Heightened tensions are likely between Kosovo and Serbia over the coming days after Kosovar authorities closed the Brnjak and Jarinje border crossings to traffic July 31. The move comes as Serbian residents in northern Kosovo have reportedly erected roadblocks on routes leading to the border crossing points ahead of the Aug. 1 implementation of new regulations on Serbians visiting Kosovo and vehicles with Serbian-issued license plates registered in Kosovar cities. Kosovar police have instructed individuals seeking to travel between Kosovo and Serbia to use alternative crossing points.

Multiple other security-related incidents have been reported in Kosovo in the lead-up to the imposition of the new rules. Air raid sirens reportedly sounded in Mitrovica July 31 amid a large deployment of emergency vehicles. Kosovar authorities have also confirmed that gunfire has been reported in some unspecified locations in northern Kosovo; no casualties were immediately reported.

Increased security is likely in parts of northern Kosovo, especially near the Serbian border, over the short term. Roadblocks and heightened security measures may prompt localized transport disruptions.

Context

From Aug. 1, Kosovar authorities will provide an entry/exit document to all individuals entering Kosovo with Serbian identification documents. Additionally, vehicles with Serbian-issued license plates that are registered in Kosovar cities will be required to replace their Serbian plates with Kosovar ones.

Advice

Exercise heightened vigilance if operating in northern Kosovo or the Kosovo-Serbia border region. Avoid the Brnjak and Jarinje border crossings, roadblocks, and concentrations of security forces; consider taking alternative routes to circumvent affected areas. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.