Pristina government building illuminated with KLA flag amid protests

Massive protests have taken place in Pristina following the sentencing of former KLA leaders by the Specialized Chambers in The Hague for war crimes. Protesters described the verdicts as “unjust” and “unacceptable,” calling for legislative amendments to the Law on Specialized Chambers.

During the demonstrations, the government building in Pristina was illuminated with the colors of the KLA flag. Participants also placed a KLA uniform on the building. The unrest coincided with a visit by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen; a group of protesters blocked the main exit at the Pristina airport, forcing her convoy to take an alternative route toward Lipjan.

The Hague court previously sentenced former KLA leaders Hashim Thaçi and Jakup Krasniqi to 25 years in prison each, Kadri Veselji to 18 years, and Redžep Selimi to 13 years for war crimes committed during 1998 and 1999.