Kosovo reacts with dismay after Zelenskyy reaffirms non-recognition stance in Belgrade

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's confirmation during a Belgrade press conference that Kyiv maintains its policy of not recognizing Kosovo's independence has sparked sharp backlash across Pristina and Albania.

In response, workers in Pristina removed a large pro-Ukraine banner displayed on the Grand Hotel since the start of Russia's 2022 invasion. The gesture underscores rising frustration among Kosovar officials, who noted that Pristina has consistently supported Kyiv by implementing Western sanctions against Moscow. Pristina's mayor declared on social media that while sympathy for victims of war remains, "no cause or policy can be built on undermining the statehood of Kosovo." The incident highlights diplomatic friction as Kyiv attempts to balance relations with Serbia alongside regional sensitivities.

Sources: Beta, Klix, Rzeczpospolita, Радіо Свобода, Українська правда