US Congressmen Keith Self, Ritchie Torres, and Mike Lawler have introduced a resolution in the House of Representatives expressing strong support for Kosovo’s integration into NATO, with particular attention on Greece and three other alliance members that have not recognized Kosovo as an independent state.
The resolution states that Kosovo’s democratic governance, civilian oversight of its security forces, and commitment to multiethnic coexistence make a compelling case for NATO membership.
Greece among four NATO allies yet to recognize Kosovo independence
Greece, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain remain the four NATO member states that have not recognized Kosovo as an independent nation. The resolution calls on these allies to reconsider their positions, arguing that broader recognition of Kosovo is essential to unblock its path toward NATO integration.
According to the text, the lack of recognition from a small number of NATO allies continues to limit Kosovo’s progress, despite its strategic alignment with NATO countries, and its stated commitment to regional stability.
Lawmakers warn of a strategic gap in Southeast Europe
The resolution frames Kosovo’s potential NATO accession as a security priority for Southeast Europe and the United States, claiming that Kosovo’s addition to the alliance would help close a strategic gap in the region which adversaries are seeking to exploit.
The lawmakers also warn that destabilizing forces continue to challenge the region. They argue that Kosovo’s NATO membership would serve as a necessary counterweight to hostile efforts and help prevent another major crisis in the Balkans.
Keith Self urges credible path forward
Congressman Keith Self proclaimed Kosovo has shown “a clear commitment to regional stability and strategic alignment with NATO countries” but added that its progress toward membership is being hampered by the lack of recognition from a small number of allies.
“The United States should encourage Greece, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain to reconsider their positions and ensure that Kosovo has a credible and achievable path to membership,” Self said.
The resolution concludes that Kosovo’s addition to NATO is essential to protecting US national security interests in Southeast Europe.
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