In a move that has escalated tensions between Kosovo and Serbia, Turkey supplied thousands of Skydagger kamikaze drones to Pristina last week, prompting Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić to accuse Ankara of violating international law.
Thousands of Kamikaze Drones Delivered to Kosovo
This week, Turkey shipped thousands of Skydagger kamikaze drones to Kosovo. Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti personally received the containers in Pristina on Wednesday, noting a contract signed in December last year with Baykar, the parent company of Skydagger.
The drone shipment has raised safety concerns in Serbia; President Aleksandar Vučić accused Turkey of violating international law and undermining stability in the Balkans, straining bilateral relations.
Serbian President’s Sharp Response
Vučić said the drone delivery was an attempt to “restore the Ottoman Empire”. Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani replied that the Serbian counterpart “shamelessly attacks a NATO member state that helps defend peace,” while deepening military ties with Russia, China, and Iran.
Vučić later expressed regret over his remarks toward Ankara, stating he had reacted too strongly and that Turkey’s conduct is critical for regional stability; he said Serbia seeks close and best relations with Turkey.
Escalating Tensions Ahead of Local Elections
Bloomberg notes tensions between Pristina and Belgrade, which still considers Kosovo its territory, have increased in recent weeks. Western mediators have repeatedly called on both sides to refrain from escalation and return to EU-supported talks.
The NATO KFOR mission, with about 5,000 troops, continues to patrol Kosovo and secure the border as tensions rise ahead of Kosovo’s local elections scheduled for Sunday, October 12.
