Kosovo removes prominent Ukrainian flag following Zelenskyy's stance on statehood

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s recent press conference in Belgrade, where he reiterated Kyiv’s policy of not recognizing Kosovo’s independence, has sparked strong backlash in Pristina. In response, a massive Ukrainian banner displayed on Pristina's Grand Hotel since the start of Russia’s 2022 invasion was removed.

Despite Kosovo's consistent support for Ukraine, including adopting Western sanctions against Moscow, Zelenskyy affirmed during his Serbia visit that Ukraine's official diplomatic position on Kosovo remains unchanged. Kosovar officials and regional politicians expressed deep disappointment over the remarks. Pristina's mayor stated on social media that while empathy for nations facing war remains intact, Kosovar statehood and sacrifice must be respected. Criticism also emerged from Albania, highlighting the diplomatic tension caused by Kyiv's ongoing effort to balance relations with Serbia.

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