Talk:Kosovo declares independence from Serbia
Original reporting
editI added the reaction from the Belgian Foreign Minister from a press release I got via e-mail, which will be forwarded to anyone requesting so (direct publication online not allowed though). --Steven Fruitsmaak (Reply) 19:34, 17 February 2008 (UTC)
The international community
editI think we should try to get the stances of different countries in as much detail as we can and why they are supportive or opposed
Supportive
I think the majority of countries in the European Union are supportive of independence but countries who have ethnic minorities with similar aspirations are opposed, like Spain with the Basque countries and Catalonia. Greece also opposes for similar reasons
The United States is supportive
I have heard the arguement that the United States and The European Union are supportive because adding small states to The European Union would not upset the current balance of power but i have not seen this argument been made by mainstream media.
Opposed
Serbia opposes. Kosovo is seen by the Serbs as a cradle of their Civilization.
Russia opposes. Russia is an old ally of Serbia and an independent Kosovo could worsen the situation in Chechnya. --Jóhann Heiðar Árnason - (talk) 16:04, 17 February 2008 (UTC)
According to source Cyprus, Greece, Spain and Romania oppose strongly and Slovenia is doubting on their support. The EU ministers of Foreign Affairs will have a meeting on the Balkan situation on Monday, expectedly to be followed by recognition of Kosovo by UK, France and Germany. On a personal note I expect the Netherlands also to recognize the new country (no independent source yet :D) Theo Assen - (talk) 16:11, 17 February 2008 (UTC)
Announcement?
editHA! they call this an announcement? Latvia apparently is going to announce it's support/opposition after checking with EU, although something tells me it is likely to be supportive in any case. Showones - (talk) 20:01, 18 February 2008 (UTC)