U.S. envoy optimistic about normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia

The U.S. envoy for the Western Balkans, Gabriel Escobar, has expressed optimism about the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, predicting major progress within the next year. Escobar also discussed efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region and potential consequences for Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik, who has been pursuing nationalist and secessionist policies. He emphasized the importance of the European Union-facilitated Ohrid agreement and called for political courage from both sides to move forward on its implementation. Escobar also highlighted concerns about Russian and Chinese influence in the region and stressed the need for Bosnia's integration into the EU and NATO to counteract this influence.