Diplomatic Efforts Intensify as Belgrade Accepts G8 Principles

Strategic Insights -

Foreign Secretary Robin Cook praised Belgrade's reported acceptance of the G8 principles as a step forward, but emphasized that the Yugoslav president, Slobodan Milosevic, must demonstrate his commitment in action rather than words. Cook claimed that NATO's sustained bombardment of Kosovo is working, but warned that all of Milosevic's promises should be treated with caution. The EU and US diplomats similarly welcomed the development, but expressed caution, stating that all terms had not been accepted. The diplomatic offensive continues with the EU envoy, the Finnish president, Martti Ahtisaari, set to meet Milosevic in Belgrade.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Yugoslav president, Slobodan Milosevic, has accepted the G8 principles, but his commitment must be demonstrated in action.
  • Foreign Secretary Robin Cook praised the development, but warned that all of Milosevic's promises should be treated with caution.
  • The EU and US diplomats welcomed the development, but expressed caution, stating that all terms had not been accepted.
  • The diplomatic offensive continues with the EU envoy, the Finnish president, Martti Ahtisaari, set to meet Milosevic in Belgrade.
  • The Serb armed forces have recently begun a major offensive targeting the Drenica region, threatening the lives of up to 150,000 displaced Kosovars.
  • The EU's Council expects Belgrade to translate its reported statements into a firm, unambiguous, and verifiable commitment to accept the G8 principles and a UN Security Council resolution.
  • The White House welcomed any positive development, but stated that it was not clear at this point that all terms had been accepted.
  • Diplomats agreed that there were still many differences to be resolved on exactly how the G8 principles should be interpreted.
  • The EU's ARRC (Allied Rapid Reaction Corps) in Macedonia will not be taking part in the training of the KLA (Kosovo Liberation Army).
  • The Russian proposal for a three-part division of Kosovo, with Russian troops patrolling the north, neutral countries keeping peace in the middle, and NATO countries not involved in bombing enforcing peace in the south, is unacceptable to NATO.

Statistics:

  • 69 days of allied aerial bombardment
  • Up to 23 civilians killed after NATO warplanes struck an old people's home and a pavilion where refugees were being housed.
  • 11 people died after NATO targeted a bridge at Varvarin in central Serbia.
  • 150,000 displaced Kosovars living close to the Albanian border.
  • Britain has more troops in Macedonia than any other country.
  • The number of refugees in Kosovo is not specified in the article.

Sources:

  • "Belgrade accepts G8 principles, but EU and US caution". The Guardian.
  • "Diplomats warn of 'bogus claims' over Kosovo". The Times.
  • "NATO rejects Russian plan for partitioning Kosovo". Reuters.
  • "EU and US welcome Belgrade's acceptance of G8 principles". The Independent.
  • "Cook warns Milosevic: 'Actions, not words'". The Telegraph.