The failure of the Kosovo talks

Frank Herold doesn't believe the Albanian leadership in Kosovo will declare independence as soon as December 10th: "It should be a final, comprehensive round of talks in the Security Council that decides whether a compromise resolution that is binding under international law is unattainable. ... This would be a great test of endurance for the EU. Some time ago, particularly those states with their own self-assertive minorities were concerned about honouring the separatist efforts of the Albanians in any way. Now, given the utter hopelessness of all other options, Cyprus appears to be the only state still trying to block independence. The examples set by Kosovo's neighbouring states speak out in favour of a swift recognition of independence. When Slovenia and Croatia declared independence one and a half decades ago, the EU had great reservations. Many regarded the swift recognition of independence as a fatal mistake and harshly criticised it. But from today's perspective it had a stabilising effect on both countries and was therefore the right move."

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