Kosovo removes Ukrainian flag after demand to show respect
Ukrainian flag was removed from building in Kosovo's capital on August 9 (illustrative photo: Getty Images)
Pristina, Kosovo's capital, has removed the Ukrainian flag from a local building. The move came after a demand that the country's sovereignty and statehood be respected, according to a statement by Pristina Mayor Përparim Rama.
Mayor's stance
Përparim Rama says Pristina's authorities always respond accordingly when Kosovo does not receive due respect for its status.
"Our empathy and solidarity will always be with people facing war, violence, and persecution. Because we, better than many others, know what it means to fight for freedom, dignity, and the right to exist as a state," the mayor said.
Limits of solidarity and politics
At the same time, the mayor stressed that support for other countries should not come at the expense of Kosovo's national interests.
"But no cause and no policy can be built on diminishing Kosovo's statehood and the sacrifice of its people," Rama concluded.
#Pristina, #Kosovo's capital, has removed the Ukrainian flag from a local building pic.twitter.com/J4aU3HMQGz
— RBC-Ukraine (@NewsUkraineRBC) August 9, 2026
Context of relationship
Ukraine does not officially recognize the independence of the partially recognized Republic of Kosovo, considering its territory part of Serbia.
Despite the lack of diplomatic relations, Kosovo has consistently supported Ukraine since the start of the full-scale war, joined Western sanctions, and welcomed Ukrainian journalists and refugees.
Political instability in Kosovo
As previously reported, the political situation in Kosovo has remained tense for a long time due to deep internal divisions and institutional crises.
In particular, early parliamentary elections were held in the country in June 2026 to break the prolonged political deadlock.
However, signs of the crisis continue to emerge in heated parliamentary confrontations. An August session was disrupted after an opposition lawmaker threw eggs at Prime Minister Albin Kurti.
