Kosovo begins excavations at new mass graves in Zubin Potok

Authorities in Kosovo have commenced excavations at newly discovered mass graves in the northern municipality of Zubin Potok. The work began in late July near the villages of Upper and Lower Kalluder following the discovery of human remains.

Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti stated that officials believe the victims may include intellectuals who went missing during the 1998-99 war. These individuals were allegedly captured by Serb troops while attempting to flee the country. Among those seeking answers is the family of Adem Ademi, a prominent surgeon who disappeared in April 1999 alongside 22 other intellectuals.

The Humanitarian Law Center reports that approximately 1,600 people remain missing from the conflict, including roughly 1,200 ethnic Albanians, 400 ethnic Serbs, and dozens of Roma. While Kosovo and Serbia reached an agreement in May 2023 to clarify the fate of the missing, tensions remain high regarding cooperation and mutual accusations of obstruction.