Kosovo Steps Closer to Normalcy as Yugoslav Troops Depart

Strategic Insights -

The province of Kosovo took a crucial step towards normalcy as the last Yugoslav troops departed and the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) signed a deal with the NATO-led peacekeeping force, KFOR, to demilitarize and surrender its heavy weapons. The agreement, signed in Pristina, requires the KLA to shed its uniforms, clear mines and booby traps, and refrain from carrying guns in many parts of Kosovo within 30 days. The progress towards peace was marred by a deadly reminder of the 79-day conflict, as a mine explosion killed two British Gurkha soldiers and two civilians, and wounded one civilian, while clearing munitions out of a school.

Key Takeaways:

  • The KLA has agreed to demilitarize and surrender its heavy weapons within 30 days as part of a deal with KFOR.
  • The agreement requires the KLA to shed its uniforms, clear mines and booby traps, and refrain from carrying guns in many parts of Kosovo.
  • The international community is preparing for the formidable task of rebuilding the war zone and assuaging its neighbors.
  • The Group of Seven plus Russia has agreed to provide $30 billion for the regional Stability Pact to aid in reconstruction.
  • U.S. President Clinton has praised Slovenia for its success in building freedom and prosperity, and has called on it to play a key role in building a lasting peace in the region.
  • Clinton has acknowledged the need for leadership and discipline to prevent retaliation against the Serbian minority in Kosovo.
  • British Lt. Gen. Michael Jackson, commander of KFOR, has reiterated the peacekeepers' commitment to maintaining peace and security for all residents of Kosovo.

Statistics:

  • 20,000 people attended President Clinton's speech in Ljubljana, Slovenia, where he praised the country's success in building freedom and prosperity. (Source: UPI)
  • 400 U.S. aircraft will begin returning from the Balkans to their home bases on Tuesday. (Source: UPI)
  • The Group of Seven plus Russia has allocated $30 billion for the regional Stability Pact. (Source: UPI)
  • Two British Gurkha soldiers and two civilians were killed, and one civilian was wounded in a mine explosion while clearing munitions out of a school in Nekovce, 30 kms southwest of Pristina. (Source: UPI)

Sources:

  • UPI (United Press International), citing President Clinton's speech in Slovenia.
  • UPI, citing British Lt. Gen. Michael Jackson's comments at a news conference.
  • UPI, citing Defense Secretary William Cohen's announcement on aircraft returning to their home bases.
  • UPI, citing the Group of Seven plus Russia's summit statement on the Stability Pact.