The European Union has decided to lift measures imposed on Kosovo after progress in stabilising the country’s north, Kosovo and EU leaders said, marking a diplomatic boost for Pristina’s efforts to advance toward EU integration.
Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti welcomed the decision, saying the measures had been “unfair from the outset” and had penalised Kosovo for tensions he said were “orchestrated by Serbia.” In a post on X, Kurti said Kosovo had remained committed to the EU and to meeting membership criteria despite the restrictions.
Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani said the decision followed intensive talks in Brussels, adding that some measures would be lifted immediately, with the remainder taking effect in January.
“I am pleased to share the important news that all EU measures toward Kosovo will be lifted,” Osmani said, thanking European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU partners for recognising Kosovo’s reforms and progress.
Von der Leyen said the move followed the peaceful transfer of local governance in northern Kosovo after recent elections. She said the EU would programme €216 million in financial assistance and aims to release a further €205 million early next year.
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama publicly praised Osmani’s role in securing the outcome, appearing alongside her in a video message and calling the development “100 percent her merit.”
The EU measures were introduced amid heightened tensions in northern Kosovo, and their removal has been linked to institutional stabilisation and steps taken following local elections. Kosovo says it will continue working with the EU in pursuit of long-sought candidate status.