29/09/2026
In June 1999, British troops crossed the border here at Hani I Elezit as part of the NATO mission authorised by UNSCR 1244 to stop the ethnic cleansing and the violence against the civilian population in Kosovo. The disastrous policies of Slobodan Milošević led to well-documented war crimes and repression in Kosovo. Hundreds of thousands of ethnic Albanians were forced to leave Kosovo or were internally displaced. The UN Security Council, including Russia, repeatedly expressed its deep concern at the grave humanitarian situation. Milošević refused all overtures for peace, precipitating the NATO air campaign in 1999 and NATO’s action in Kosovo.
The UK is proud of its role in Kosovo in 1999 and ever since. It remains steadfast in its support for international justice, accountability, and respect for the judgments of international tribunals. Kosovo took the difficult decision to establish and support the Specialist Chambers, knowing that they could investigate some of the most prominent figures in organisations which were central to its liberation struggle. Kosovo can be proud of its continued willingness to uphold the principle that no individual is above the law. This is an important example for the region as a whole.
The recent convictions concern individual crimes committed against victims from different communities. They are in no way a judgement on Kosovo's statehood, sovereignty or right to determine its own future, which the UK will continue fiercely to defend. Convicted persons have the right to appeal their verdicts.
The UK remains firmly committed to truth about the Western Balkans and lasting reconciliation. We will continue to work with partners across the region and internationally in support of peace, justice and a prosperous future for all communities.
