11 Dec 2022 | 11:18 PM UTC
Kosovo, Serbia: Tensions to remain elevated in northern regions through at least mid-December amid ongoing clashes and roadblocks /update 1
Tensions to remain high in northern Kosovo through at least mid-December amid ongoing clashes, roadblocks; Brnjak, Jarinje crossings closed.
Event
Tensions will almost certainly remain elevated between Kosovo and Serbia through at least mid-December after ethnic Serb protesters clashed with security forces and strengthened roadblocks on main routes in the northern region of Kosovo. Ethnic Serbs established the blockades in protest to the arrest of former Kosovar police officer Dejan Pantic, whom officials allege committed acts of terror on offices belonging to the Central Election Commission in northern Kosovo. On Dec. 10, Kosovar authorities closed the Brnjak and Jarinje border crossings to traffic all traffic in response to the roadblocks. Kosovo and Serbian officials have continued with threats, with Serbian officials threatening to request to deploy Serbian troops into Kosovo under a UN resolution.
Multiple other security-related incidents have been reported in Kosovo in the lead-up to the imposition of the roadblocks and closing of the Brnjak and Jarinje border crossings. Air raid sirens reportedly sounded in Mitrovica on Dec. 10 amid a large deployment of emergency vehicles. Kosovar authorities have also confirmed that gunfire and explosions have occurred in several locations in northern Kosovo. The European Union rule of law mission (EULEX) reported a stun grenade was used against one of their patrols; no casualties were reported.
Increased security is likely in parts of northern Kosovo, especially near the Serbian border, over the short term. Roadblocks and heightened security measures will likely prompt localized transport disruptions. Further clashes between security forces and northern Kosovo-Serbs are likely.
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.
