Richard Grenell, US President Donald Trump's presidential envoy for special missions and former US special envoy for the Kosovo-Serbia dialogue, has issued strong accusations against Albin Kurti, holding him directly responsible for the political crisis and institutional deadlock in Kosovo.
In a written response to Gazeta Express, Grenell stated that Kurti has failed in governance and in the fight against corruption, while accusing him of continuing to create political blockades, just like during his time in opposition.
"The political situation in Kosovo is a crisis created by Albin Kurti. He has failed to fight corruption and is continuing his long history of creating blockades and barriers, as he did when he was in opposition. He clearly does not know how to govern," Grenell declared.
According to him, Kurti is "better at directing criticism from the margins than at leading a government."
Grenell also spoke about former Kosovo President Hashim Thaçi, who is on trial in The Hague. He reiterated support for Thaçi's release and said his return to Kosovo would be welcomed by the West.
"The West wants former President Hashim Thaçi to be released and return to help lead Kosovo again. I believe Thaçi will have a renewed perspective and energy for the people of Kosovo," Grenell said.
He went further, claiming that Western countries do not want to continue cooperating with Kurti.
"The West will no longer work with Kurti, because he only complains and creates blockades," Grenell declared.
The statements come at a time when Kosovo continues to face political deadlock, while the trial of Thaçi and other former KLA leaders at the Specialist Chambers in The Hague is approaching its final phase.
