Russia's ambassador to Nato, Dmitry Rogozin, has stated that if the dispute over Kosovo independence continues, Russia could potentially use military force. "If the EU develops a unified position or if Nato exceeds its mandate set by the UN, then these organisations will be in conflict with the UN," he said. While many members of the EU support Kosovo's independence, there remain several who are strongly opposed. "Russia, a permanent member of the UN Security Council, backs Serbia, which has condemned the independence declaration issued by the Kosovo parliament on 17 February."
"On Tuesday members of the Serb minority in Kosovo attacked two border posts staffed by UN personnel and Kosovo police. The violence led the Nato troops in Kosovo - known as K-For - to reinforce the border with Serbia." This increase in violence could be the spark Russia needs to claim the use of brute force.
Even the Russian media is speaking out. "A commentary in the Vesti Plus analytical programme, on state-run television, called the assassinated former Serbian Prime Minister, Zoran Djindjic, a Western puppet who had "received a well-deserved bullet". It said Djindjic had sold national heroes to the International War Crimes Tribunal in The Hague. The programme concluded that Serbia - and not only Serbia - must now decide whether to acquiesce in what has happened, or resist."
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With Russia already politically chaffing with the UK, this could bring conflict with Russia and the rest of the world. If they do employ military force, there is a likely chance that other nations will react in hopes of preserving an independent Kosovo.
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