Russian, Serbian media spread instability narrative in Kosovo elections

State‑run Russian outlets and Belgrade‑linked media intensified their coverage on the day of Kosovo's parliamentary election, broadcasting narratives that described the vote as a test of democracy plagued by "terror", "intimidation" and an "institutional crisis".

Channels such as RT Balkan, Sputnik, RIA Novosti and TASS reported alleged arrests, fear‑mongering and attacks on the Serb community, and highlighted difficulties in forming a stable parliamentary majority. The reports quoted Serbian politician Milovan Drecun, who described pressures from Pristina and obstacles to coalition building. Analysts say the overall aim of these narratives is to portray Kosovo as unstable, undermine the EU‑facilitated Kosovo‑Serbia dialogue and reinforce Russian influence in the Balkans.