Serbia blasts Kenya for recognizing Kosovo as independent state

Kenya’s recognition of Kosovo as an independent state has sparked a strong reaction from Serbia, which has condemned the decision as a violation of international law.

Serbia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticized Kenya’s move, arguing that it directly breaches United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244, which affirms Serbia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In a statement, the Serbian foreign ministry described Kenya’s decision as an unacceptable act that disregards fundamental international principles.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia strongly condemns the decision of the Republic of Kenya to recognize the unilaterally declared independence of the so-called 'Kosovo,’” the ministry stated.

Serbia also pointed out that Kenya’s recognition of Kosovo comes as the world marks the 80th anniversary of the adoption of the UN Charter, a document that Belgrade insists the Kenyan government has disregarded.

“This decision also undermines efforts to foster constructive dialogue, regional stability, and respect for the international legal order,” the ministry added.

Belgrade dismissed any reference to the 2010 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice as a justification for Kenya’s decision, insisting that such arguments are baseless.

Serbia further expressed disappointment, saying the decision threatens the historically friendly relations between the two nations, which have been built over decades through mutual respect and cooperation, particularly within the Non-Aligned Movement.

Additionally, Serbia warned that it would take diplomatic and political steps in response to Kenya’s move, which it termed as hostile.

“Serbia will take all necessary diplomatic and political measures in response to this unacceptable and unfriendly act,” the ministry said.

The Serbian government highlighted that, in the past eight years, 28 countries have either withdrawn or suspended their recognition of Kosovo’s independence, while only two new states have recognized it.

It insisted that most of the international community continues to support Serbia’s stance on the issue.

“The Republic of Serbia remains firmly committed to defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity through all available diplomatic and legal means,” the statement read.

Kenya’s recognition of Kosovo was confirmed on Wednesday, making it the first country in nearly five years to formally acknowledge Kosovo’s independence.

The announcement came after a meeting in Nairobi between Kosovo’s Special Envoy Behgjet Pacolli and President William Ruto.

Albanian President Bajram Begaj welcomed the development, praising Kenya for the decision.

“Pleased that Kenya has recognised the state of Kosovo today. I extend my gratitude to my friend (President) William Ruto for this decision, warmly welcomed by all Albanians,” Begaj posted on X.

Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008 but has faced resistance in gaining full international recognition.

It remains outside the United Nations due to opposition from Serbia and its allies, including Russia and China.

So far, over 110 countries, including the United States and most European nations, have recognized Kosovo’s sovereignty.

With Serbia vowing to challenge Kenya’s decision through diplomatic efforts, the recognition is expected to influence the broader debate on Kosovo’s international standing.