This deal offered is a move that looks to keeping the Balkans stable along with Kosovo about to declare independence from Serbia. While the EU offers accelerated membership for Serbia, it says it will do so after Belgrade hands over war criminals still at large. The leaders of the EU have agreed to send a security force of 1,800 troops.
Nicolas Sarkozy, the president of France said Kosovo’s independence was inevitable while the leaders refrained from backing the declaration.
According to Vojislav Kostunica, Serbia’s Prime Minister, recognizing Kosovo’s independence would be the most dangerous precedent after World War II.
EU leaders at a one-day summit in Brussels state that Kosovo’s current situation is unsustainable.
Jose Socrates, Portugal’s Prime Minister said that the clearest signal the EU can give that it intends to take the lead role of Kosovo’s future. Currently, Portugal holds the presidency of the European Union.
Still, Serbia says it will not accept anything in exchange for Kosovo. Still, the majority of Serbs see Kosovo as a historic part of their country. This issue will play a strong part in the elections.
While Boris Tadic, the president of Serbia opposes Kosovo’s independence, he said that he will not distance himself from the EU.
EU states opposed to Kosovo’s independence include: Cyprus, Greece, Slovakia, Spain, and Romania. They are concerned about possible repercussions for separatist movements throughout the continent.