Rival Groups Emerge as Kosovo's Future Hinges on Unification

Kosovar Albanian leaders are locked in a struggle for power, with two rival groups vying for recognition as the legitimate government of the province. Ibrahim Rugova, the "president of the Republic of Kosovo," has seen his popularity wane due to his perceived moderation on independence, while Hashim Thaci, the prime minister of the Interim Government of Kosovo, has capitalized on Rugova's decline with his more militant stance. Western diplomats are finding it challenging to navigate the complex web of alliances and rivalries, with some calling for a settlement that addresses the concerns of both sides.

Key Takeaways:

• Ibrahim Rugova, the "president of the Republic of Kosovo," has seen his support dwindle due to his perceived moderation on independence, with some critics accusing him of being a "traitor" for meeting with Yugoslav President Slobodan Milosevic.
• Hashim Thaci, the prime minister of the Interim Government of Kosovo, has gained popularity with his more militant stance, but his association with the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) and his goal of complete independence from Yugoslavia creates a complex dynamic.
• Western diplomats are struggling to find a solution that would bring unity to the Kosovar Albanian community, with both Rugova and Thaci presenting rival claims to leadership.
• The presence of two rival governments is hindering Kosovo's ability to raise funds abroad, with Albanians in the United States and elsewhere contributing to Rugova's government through a voluntary 3% income tax.
• U.S. officials are trying to forge a settlement, but have been frustrated by their inability to engage with Rugova, who has been traveling extensively since being freed by Milosevic.
• Albanian government officials believe the United States is beginning to side with Thaci, who emerged as a leader during talks in Rambouillet, France.

Statistics:

• The Kosovo Liberation Army has been involved in attacks against Serb police and soldiers, elevating the conflict in Kosovo to a full-blown war.
• The KLA wants Kosovo to be completely independent of Yugoslavia, a goal NATO officially opposes.
• Hashim Thaci has traveled extensively in the United States, meeting with government officials and seeking broader political support.
• Western diplomats have expressed concern about the rift between Rugova and Thaci, with Albanian foreign minister Paskal Milo accusing Rugova of recklessly undermining Albanian unity.

Sources:

• "Kosovo's Exodus: A Leadership Crisis in the Making" - The New York Times
• "Thaci Appeals to Rugova to Patch Up Differences" - Koha Jone (independent daily newspaper)
• "Rugova's Softening Support Exploited by Thaci" - Rilindja (Kosovar newspaper printed in exile)