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Russia Tries To Thwart Secession

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: February 18, 2008

UNITED NATIONS - Russia tried to block Kosovo's independence during a closed-door emergency session of the U.N. Security Council on Sunday, saying it is deeply concerned about the safety of Serbs living in the territory.

The 15-member council is divided on the future of Kosovo. Russia backs its close ally Serbia, while the United States, Britain, France and other European Union members are supporting the Kosovo Albanians.

The council met at the request of Russia, which argues that Kosovo's declaration of independence from Serbia made Sunday violates the council's 1999 resolution.

The United States and other Western countries disputed Russia's arguments, saying there was little danger to the Serbs in Kosovo and the resolution does not apply to the situation because its provisions are not meant to be permanent.

Kosovo's best hopes for international recognition could come today when European Union ministers meet in Brussels, Belgium. Russia, which has veto power on the council, insists Kosovo is a Security Council issue - not an EU issue - and argues that Kosovo's move sets a dangerous precedent for separatist groups globally.

The Associated Press

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