17:26 2002-01-14

Situation in Serb province Kosovo which is under UN protectorate has become really dramatic. In this way, it was characterized by spokesman for UN Civil Mission, Susan Manual. At the same time, UN mission’s head in the province, Hans Haekkerup has sent in his resignation, as reported, for domestic reasons.
Radically oriented Albanians do not listen to Western representatives’ advise to support “moderate Rugova,” who is practically US and NATO protege, while continuing to carry out their own line. One of these days, already third attempt of Kosovar parliament failed to elect the president of the province. Only 51 deputies (of 120) voted for the only pretender Ibragim Rogova. This time, 10 voices failed to reach the sufficient parliamentary majority.
Though it was clear anyway that the candidacy of Democratic Union of Kosovo’s leader would not pass. Albanian party of odious Hashim Tachi, ex-leader of the Liberation Army, and Serb coalition Return refused to participate in the voting. Tachi has his own ambitions, while Serbs cannot make it up with Rugova’s promise to build an independent republic. Now, a new election will be carried out. The deputies will vote until they are not tired of it.
UN and NATO representatives expect “political ripeness” from Kosovar political figures and that they finally find consensus. Though it is obvious that there is no hint at the newly elected Skupschina’s effectiveness. Albanians are simply at another step of development.
There can be no forward movement, taking into account the fact that all Albanian parties are aimed at Kosovo’s withdrawal from Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, in other words, at disintegration of the state. (Before November 17, this was called by the West “pre-election promises”, as if for attracting more Albanians to ballot boxes). Social, political, economical and other issues are neglected by the “elected representatives of the people,” because money and personal ambitions reign over the minds. Anarchy is ruling in Kosovo.
As for the Western “mediators,” it could be supposed that this variant of evolution was forecasted by them.
The United States and its main allies from NATO most likely would prefer to see “extremist Republic Kosovo”, than to give an opportunity to Serbs to return their influence upon the “Serb spiritual heart” and to strengthen this state which is traditionally friendly towards Russia. For them, it would be easier to establish contacts with Albanians. Now the West seems only to wash its hands of it, while making its demonstrative steps.
Apropos, KFOR commander, general Marcel Valentin said on Saturday he did not exclude declaration of independence of the province. Did he see the things clearly?