AGP Executive Report

Espionage Case in Focus: Kosovo prosecutors indicted analyst Fatmir Sheholli on espionage and blackmail charges, alleging he passed political, security and institutional information to Serbia’s BIA and used a “Top Secret 2” plan to weaken Kosovo from inside. War-Crimes Countdown: Municipalities in Kosovo are installing countdown clocks ahead of the Sept. 16 verdict for former KLA leaders at the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague, with Ferizaj/Urosevac framing it as a “new date of freedom.” Violence Against Women: Police figures show at least 62 women in Kosovo have been killed by family members since 2010, with three killings recorded so far in 2026. Politics and Economy: Kosovo’s trade deficit widened to €615.7 million in July as imports surged to €720.5 million versus exports of €104.8 million. Regional Diplomacy: Kosovo is among countries backing a call for a strategic, long-term approach to the Rohingya crisis, urging conditions for safe return after nine years in Bangladesh. Sports & Culture: Kosovo media will broadcast the Mediterranean Games Taranto 2026, while local film industry activity continues with CineLink Industry Days winners and the “Sister Sister” women-in-cinema initiative.

Kosovo Economy: Kosovo’s trade deficit widened sharply in July to €615.7 million, with imports at €720.5 million versus exports of just €104.8 million—exports covering only about 15% of what the country buys abroad. The EU supplied 42% of imports, with Turkey and China also key sources. Gaza Diplomacy: Uganda and Burundi officials met in Israel to discuss joining a proposed international security force for Gaza under the U.S. “Board of Peace” plan. Uganda is finalising details after parliament approved about 1,200 troops; Burundi is still considering its role. Kosovo is among other countries already linked to the initiative. Politics in Pristina: Former U.S. congressman Joe DioGuardi urged Kosovo to elect a president quickly, warning the political deadlock could destabilize the Balkans. Public Safety: A 26-year-old man is suspected of killing his pregnant wife in Kosovo’s Malisheva area; the woman died from gunshot wounds at 34 weeks, while the suspect is in critical condition. Local Governance & Society: Kosovo granted citizenship to U.S. lobbying advocates Joe and Shirley DioGuardi, citing decades of support for Kosovo Albanians and independence.

Kosovo Politics: Former U.S. congressman Joe DioGuardi warned in Pristina that Kosovo’s political deadlock over electing a president could leave the country “in big trouble,” urging parties to reach an agreement quickly. Diplomacy: State Secretary Damjan Jović met the U.S. Embassy’s Katherine Croft in Belgrade, briefing on the “extremely difficult” situation for Serbs in Kosovo and Metohija and calling for stronger U.S. support for human and political rights. Security & Governance: NATO says changes to KFOR’s presence at the main bridge in Kosovska Mitrovica are being carried out “with full transparency,” with the process described as gradual and reversible depending on conditions. Northern Kosovo Tensions: A €423,000 rail repair project has triggered a political row after documents showed Kosovo-funded passenger coaches were repaired in Serbia, drawing criticism from opposition figures. Crime: Police report a suspected murder in Malisheva: a 34-week pregnant woman died after gunfire, while her 26-year-old husband is in critical condition. International Spotlight: UN rapporteur Francesca Albanese renewed calls for an international protection force for the occupied West Bank and Gaza, citing urgent obligations under international law. Regional Human Interest: A 19-year-old man from Kosovo is believed to have drowned at Albania’s Shengjin beach.

KFOR & Mitrovica Bridge: NATO says changes to KFOR’s presence at the main bridge in Kosovska Mitrovica are being handled “with full transparency,” and that any reopening decisions must consider the needs of all communities. Kosovo Politics: The Alliance for the Future of Kosovo staged a coal protest outside the government building, accusing the acting PM Albin Kurti of keeping the country in “energy darkness” amid stalled institutions and continued electricity imports. Justice & KLA Verdict Build-up: A civic initiative called “Kosovo Is Waiting” announced a “March for Freedom” in Pristina on September 12 ahead of the Hague verdict for former KLA leaders. Serb Church Vandalism: In Prizren, a man vandalized the Serbian Orthodox Church of the Holy Savior, damaging doors and exterior lighting; Kosovo police detained him and prosecutors ordered his release pending further proceedings. Community & Education: Pristina hosted the final rounds of Kosovo’s 14th Prominent Mosque Schools Competition, bringing students from 18 cities together for Quran, creed, jurisprudence, and history tests. Regional Watch: A US court overturned Trump’s immigrant visa suspension affecting Kosovo and other countries, ruling the policy unlawful.

Political Deadlock & Energy: Kosovo opposition staged a coal protest outside the government building, accusing acting PM Albin Kurti of worsening both political and energy “darkness” amid stalled institutions and continued electricity imports. Mitrovica Bridge Talks: Kurti says the Ibar bridge should reopen to cars and that next steps are being discussed with KFOR, while NATO says any reopening must work for all communities. Hague Verdict Countdown: Pristina installed a public countdown ahead of the September 16 verdict for former KLA leaders, with a September 12 “March for Freedom” planned. US Visa Ruling: A US judge struck down Trump’s immigrant visa suspension for 75 countries, including Kosovo, saying the blanket policy was unlawful and exceeded the State Department’s authority. Northern Kosovo Security & KFOR: Serbia urged NATO to stop KFOR’s withdrawal steps tied to the Ibar bridge, warning of escalating pressure on Kosovo Serbs. Climate Pressure on Farming: Farmers report worsening losses as drought and sudden floods hit crops, pushing some to stop growing risky produce. Kosovars Traveling to Albania: Over 41,000 people crossed into Albania via Morina over the weekend, many heading to the coast. Labour Market: Kosovo is hiring more foreign workers as businesses struggle to fill gaps, but retention remains a problem.

Border & Tourism: More than 41,600 people crossed from Kosovo into Albania over the weekend via Morina, with heavy traffic heading toward the coast as the summer season nears its end. Justice & Accountability: A Pristina countdown has been installed ahead of the September 16 Hague verdict for former Kosovo president Hashim Thaçi and three other KLA leaders, with supporters also planning a rally in Pristina on September 12. Mitrovica Tensions: Kosovo’s acting prime minister Albin Kurti says the Ibar bridge in Mitrovica should reopen to cars, arguing other bridges have opened without new flare-ups as NATO and KFOR discuss next steps. Kosovo-Related International Legal Fallout: A US federal judge struck down Trump’s policy suspending immigrant visa processing for 75 countries, including Kosovo, saying it was unlawful and exceeded the State Department’s authority. Local Economy & Work: Kosovo is hiring more foreign workers to cover labour shortages, but many leave quickly, leaving businesses with a double problem. Public Safety: Kosovo police reported seizing weapons and ammunition in the north, as authorities continue security operations.

Mitrovica Bridge Talks: Kosovo’s acting PM Albin Kurti says the main Ibar bridge should reopen to cars, arguing two nearby bridges are already operating and NATO/KFOR presence is being reduced—while Serbia’s Aleksandar Vučić urges NATO to stop any reopening, warning it would heighten fear for Kosovo Serbs. Hague Countdown: Pristina has installed a public countdown to the Sept. 16 verdict in The Hague for former KLA leaders, with supporters rallying Sept. 12 ahead of the ruling. Kosovo Missing Persons: Kosovo’s Missing Persons Commission says excavations in Zubin Potok are complete and remains of 23 people were found, with DNA identification now set to follow. Foreign Labour: Kosovo is hiring more foreign workers to cover labour shortages, but many leave quickly, leaving businesses with a double gap. US Immigration Court: A US judge struck down Trump’s immigrant visa suspension affecting 75 countries, including Kosovo—calling the policy “patently unlawful.” US Detention Case: ICE detained Blerim Skoro, a Kosovo-born man who says he worked with the CIA against al-Qaeda, as he faces removal.

Mitrovica Bridge Tensions: NATO says any move to reopen the Ibar bridge for cars must consider both Albanian and Serb communities as KFOR reduces its presence; Serbia’s Vučić has demanded NATO stop the withdrawal and warned reopening could raise tensions. Missing Persons Update: Kosovo’s Missing Persons Commission says excavations in Zubin Potok (Mala Kaludra and Jabuka) are complete, with remains of 23 people found and DNA identification now set to begin, linked to the “Mitrovica intellectuals group.” Political Pressure Claims: Russian officials accuse Pristina and international missions of enabling terror against Kosovo Serbs, while the EU is criticized for failing as mediator. Labour Market Shift: Kosovo is hiring more foreign workers (Bangladesh, Turkey, Philippines) as local staff shortages persist, but many recruits leave quickly, leaving businesses with a double problem. Health Alert: West Nile virus is spreading across Europe; Kosovo is among the countries reporting locally acquired cases. Courtroom Politics: A Pristina rally is planned for Sept. 12 supporting former KLA leaders ahead of their Hague verdict on Sept. 16. Crime: A deported rapist, Blerim Hajdarmataj, has been caught back in Essex after sneaking into the UK.

Mitrovica Bridge Tensions: NATO says any decision to reopen the Ibar bridge for vehicles must consider the needs of both Albanian and Serb communities, after KFOR began reducing its permanent presence and Serbia urged NATO to stop the move. Serb Rights Alarm: Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova claims terror and oppression against Kosovo Serbs are intensifying and calls for international action to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe. Security and War Crimes: Kosovo police found weapons and military uniforms near suspected mass-grave sites linked to remains of at least 23 people, with forensics underway to assess possible links to 1998-99 killings. EU Mediation Under Fire: Kosovo MFA says the EU has failed as mediator in the Kosovo and Metohija settlement, while NATO and EU officials continue to stress coordination for any bridge reopening. Health Watch: West Nile virus is spreading across Europe, with Kosovo among the countries reporting locally acquired cases. Court Update: Former Kosovo president Hashim Thaçi says he expects acquittal ahead of the Specialist Chambers verdict expected on September 16.

Mitrovica Bridge Tensions: NATO says any decision to reopen the Ibar bridge for vehicles must consider the needs of both Albanian and Serb communities, as KFOR reduces its permanent presence and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić urges NATO to stop the move. Russia vs. EU Mediation: Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova claims the EU has failed as mediator and warns of a “catastrophic” humanitarian situation for Kosovo Serbs, calling for action by international bodies. War Crimes Verdict Looms: Former Kosovo president Hashim Thaçi says he expects acquittal ahead of the Kosovo Specialist Chambers verdict on September 16. Northern Kosovo Security: Kosovo police report seizing weapons, ammunition, and uniforms in northern areas linked to mass-grave investigations. Missing Persons Update: Forensic work near Zubin Potok has uncovered remains believed to belong to 23 people missing since the 1998-99 war. Local Politics: The US again urges Kosovo leaders to end a prolonged political deadlock that has left institutions stalled. Church Dispute: Plans for a Catholic church near Vushtrri face opposition from local Muslim representatives. Culture & Film: CineLink Industry Days at the Sarajevo Film Festival handed top prizes, including Kosovo-related projects and awards for “Wolf Days.”

Mass Graves & War Crimes: Kosovo police and forensic teams say they have unearthed remains believed to belong to 23 people from three suspected mass-grave sites near Zubin Potok, with identities pending DNA checks. Security Crackdown in the North: Kosovo’s Interior Ministry and police displayed seized weapons, ammunition, and military uniforms from operations around Kalludër e Vogël, linking the cache to the same area where mass graves were found. Armed Threats: A Serbian group Kosovo has designated as terrorist posted a new video threatening Kosovo, with the footage not independently verified. Political Deadlock: Opposition lawmakers blocked entrances to Kosovo’s government building as the country remains stuck without fully functioning institutions and still lacks a parliamentary speaker. EU Funding Watch: Albania has received the most money so far under the EU Western Balkans Growth Plan, while Kosovo has received €61 million by May 2026, with payments tied to reforms. Diplomacy & Mitrovica Bridge: Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić says he wrote NATO chief Mark Rutte urging KFOR to stop the Ibar bridge opening and to act over what he calls “terror” against Serbs.

Political Deadlock: The US State Department again urged Kosovo’s leaders to end the prolonged stalemate, warning it’s blocking institutions and reforms as parliament still hasn’t elected a speaker and parties remain divided. Parliament Protest: Opposition lawmakers physically blocked entrances to the government building, demanding parliament resume its stalled opening session and complete steps needed to form new institutions. Mitrovica Bridge Tensions: Serbia’s Vučić accused Pristina and Western partners of pressuring Kosovo Serbs as the main Mitrovica bridge reopening process moves forward, while the EU says coordination and security guarantees are still required. Police Accountability: Kosovo’s Police Inspectorate recommended suspending two officers after allegations a Kosovo Serb man was beaten during a raid in Dren, near Zubin Potok. War Crimes Remains Found: Kosovo authorities reported remains of more than 20 people in suspected mass graves, with forensic work continuing on at least 23 individuals. Spying Case: Kosovo says Serbia tried to recruit people linked to radical Muslim groups, after arrests tied to alleged spying for the Serbian intelligence agency. Deportation Fight: The US is seeking to deport Kosovo-born Blerim Skoro, who claims he worked undercover for US intelligence and infiltrated al-Qaeda after 9/11.

Police Oversight: Kosovo’s Police Inspectorate (IPK) recommended suspending two officers after allegations a Kosovo Serb man was beaten during a raid in Dren, Zubin Potok, with further steps planned alongside prosecutors. Mitrovica Bridge Tensions: Serbia rejected the EU’s view that conditions are in place for the main Mitrovica bridge to reopen, as KFOR reduces its permanent presence and Brussels says security for all communities and better coordination are still needed. Political Deadlock: Kosovo remains stuck after the Assembly failed to complete its constitution on time, with parties disputing the presidency deal and warning of another election. Security Claims: Kosovo says Serbia’s spy agency tried to recruit people linked to radical Muslim groups, after arrests tied to alleged information-sharing. Asylum Case: An Iranian man applied for asylum in Kosovo after being detained at Pristina airport with a Belgian passport that wasn’t his. Environment: Kosovo’s Environmental Inspectorate demolished five illegal structures near Radoniq Lake in Gjakova, continuing crackdowns on unauthorized building on public land. Energy/Trade: Kosovo and North Macedonia signed a three-year coal deal for about 3 million tonnes from Obiliq at €24.40 per tonne.

Police Accountability: Kosovo’s Inspectorate (IPK) has recommended suspending two officers from the North Mitrovica Regional Police Directorate after allegations that a Serb man in Dren, Zubin Potok, was beaten during an August 11 raid. North Mitrovica / KFOR & EU: Serbia says the Mitrovica bridge is not ready to reopen, while the EU says coordination and security arrangements are in place as KFOR reduces its permanent presence. Political Crisis: Kosovo remains in a deadlock over forming the Assembly and electing a president, with opposition parties staying away from talks and warning of another election. Justice in Northern Unrest: A Pristina court ordered 30 days’ pre-trial detention for Serb suspect Igor Mirković over alleged attacks on KFOR and Kosovo Police during May 2023 unrest in Zvečan. Public Health: Kosovo reports 137 measles cases since mid-April, including 25 in the past week, and has launched catch-up MMR vaccination in low-coverage areas. Energy Deal: Kosovo and North Macedonia’s state energy firms sign a three-year coal deal for about 3 million tonnes from Obiliq mine.

EU-Ibar Bridge Update: The EU says conditions are now in place to reopen Mitrovica’s main bridge, after KFOR began reducing its permanent presence there—though Brussels also warned that Kosovo police and local authorities must coordinate properly and ensure security for all communities. KFOR & Court Moves in North Kosovo: A Pristina court ordered 30 days’ detention for Serb suspect Igor Mirković over alleged attacks on KFOR and Kosovo Police during the May 2023 unrest in Zvečan. Political Deadlock: Kosovo’s acting president Albulena Haxhiu urged parties to agree on a consensus presidential candidate to avoid another election, but opposition MPs largely stayed away, keeping the parliamentary crisis stuck. Energy Deal: Kosovo and North Macedonia signed a three-year agreement for about 3 million tonnes of coal from Kosovo’s Obiliq mine at €24.40 per tonne. Public Health: Kosovo reported 137 measles cases since mid-April, with 25 in the past week, and has launched catch-up MMR vaccination in the worst-hit areas. Media Ethics Protest: Kosovo’s Life Line protested outside Sinjali over alleged privacy-violating reporting on suicide cases. Telecom & Economy: Ncell introduced a 60-second pulse rate for international outgoing calls; Kosovo’s telecom growth continued in June, while Albania’s economy grew 3.71% in Q1, with Kosovo cited among regional growth leaders. Culture: Sundance-winning director Blerta Basholli brought her war-era coming-of-age film “Dua” to Sarajevo, focusing on how conflict shapes a teenager’s life.

Mitrovica Bridge Standoff: Serbia’s President Aleksandar Vučić says he will ask NATO chief Mark Rutte to block the reopening of the main Mitrovica bridge to traffic, calling the move a “major disappointment” and blaming KFOR for the plan, while the EU says conditions for reopening have been met. Northern Kosovo Security: KFOR has started reducing its permanent presence at key sites in northern Kosovo, including the bridge area, and plans to give Kosovo police a greater role—though DW reports deep mistrust among local Serbs after demolitions and allegations of police abuse. Presidential Deadlock: Kosovo’s acting president Albulena Haxhiu urged parties to agree on a consensus presidential candidate to avoid another election, after meeting PM Albin Kurti and minority representatives, as major opposition parties stayed away. EU-Kosovo Tensions: EU pressure is also rising over Pristina’s demolitions near Lake Ujman/Gazivode, with the EU warning irreversible enforcement actions while court reviews are ongoing. Public Health: Kosovo recorded 137 measles cases since mid-April, with 25 in the past week, and has launched catch-up MMR vaccination for children in low-coverage areas. Media Ethics: Kosovo’s Life Line activists protested outside Sinjali over alleged privacy-violating reporting on suicide cases, demanding better accountability. Economy & Governance: A business group warns Kosovo’s political deadlock is costing the economy hundreds of millions and could deter foreign investors.