Serbia has “strongly” condemned Kenya’s decision to recognise the independence of Kosovo.
Through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Serbia stated that this action constitutes a blatant violation of international law and directly breaches United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244.
The ministry said the resolution unequivocally guarantees the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Serbia.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia strongly condemns the decision of the Republic of Kenya to recognize the unilaterally declared independence of the so-called 'Kosovo,'" the statement said.
Serbia emphasised that the decision comes in the very year marking the 80th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Charter, which the Kenyan authorities have "disregarded with this move."
“This decision also undermines efforts to foster constructive dialogue, regional stability, and respect for the international legal order,” the ministry added.
The country further stressed that any reference to the 2010 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice as justification for this decision is unfounded.
Moreover, Serbia expressed regret over how the move sets a troubling precedent in the traditionally friendly relations between Serbia and Kenya.
Serbia noted that these relations have been built over decades on mutual respect and cooperation, including within the Non-Aligned Movement.
Serbia warned that it will take all necessary diplomatic and political measures in response to "this unacceptable and unfriendly act."
The country also highlighted that over the past eight years, 28 countries have withdrawn or suspended their recognition of Kosovo’s unilaterally declared independence, while only two new states have granted recognition.
Serbia argued that the clear majority of the international community, alongside law and justice, remain on its side.
Serbia reaffirmed its commitment to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity, promising to continue its efforts with even greater determination.
“The Republic of Serbia remains firmly committed to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity through all available diplomatic and legal means,” the statement read.
Kenya recognised Kosovo as an independent state on Wednesday, becoming the first country to do so after nearly five years of stalled efforts for further international recognition.
This was confirmed by Albanian President Bajram Begaj following a meeting between Kosovo’s Special Envoy Behgjet Pacolli and Kenyan President William Ruto in Nairobi.
"Pleased that Kenya has recognised the state of Kosovo today. I extend my gratitude to my friend (President) William Ruto for this decision, warmly welcomed by all Albanians," Begaj wrote on X.
Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 but is not a United Nations member due to opposition from Serbia and its allies, including UN Security Council veto holders Russia and China.
Over 110 countries, including the United States and most European nations, have recognized Kosovo's independence.
