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Milosevic, Slobodan

Last-Ditch Effort to Avert Nato Airstrikes in Yugoslavia

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

US diplomat Richard Holbrooke has arrived in Belgrade, amidst a last-ditch effort to convince Yugoslavia's president Slobodan Milosevic to accept peace proposals over Kosovo, a move that could prevent Nato airstrikes. The proposals were brokered by Holbrooke in October, under which Milosevic agreed to let international monitors into the disputed province. The decision to send Holbrooke has followed close consultation between Foreign Secretary Robin Cook, French counterpart Hubert Vedrine, and US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright. However, the situation remains precarious, with bombing raids possible within days if Yugoslavia refuses to budge.

Key Takeaways:

  • US diplomat Richard Holbrooke is in Belgrade for a last-ditch attempt to convince Yugoslavia's president Slobodan Milosevic to accept peace proposals over Kosovo.
  • The proposals, brokered by Holbrooke in October, include the presence of international monitors in the disputed province.
  • Foreign Secretary Robin Cook, French counterpart Hubert Vedrine, and US Secretary of State Madeleine Albright have been in close consultation regarding Holbrooke's mission.
  • Nato airstrikes could be launched within days if Yugoslavia refuses to accept peace proposals.
  • The situation remains volatile, with more violence reported in Kosovo over the weekend.
  • Yugoslavia's president Slobodan Milosevic has been accused of being the main obstacle to peace in the region.

Statistics:

  • 1,380 international monitors left Kosovo on Saturday after being ordered out by Yugoslavia.
  • Nato airstrikes are possible within days if Yugoslavia refuses to accept peace proposals.
  • The International Community has expressed concern over the escalation of violence in Kosovo.
  • At least nine villages in Kosovo were shelled by Yugoslav forces on Sunday.
  • The Kosovo Liberation Army has been accused of trying to provoke a wider conflict to prompt Nato action.

Sources:

  • The Guardian [No date]
  • The Times [No date]
  • BBC News [No date]

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