Kosovo independence to set precedent for some 200 territories around the world
Kosovo independence would set a precedent for some 200 territories around the world, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said.
"The Russian leadership has never stated that it will recognize Abkhazia and South Ossetia in case of Kosovo independence," he said. "Russia perfectly understands what kind of consequences any separatist process can have."
Lavrov said everything should be done to resolve the status of Kosovo within the framework of international law, rather than assuming independence would come, an approach he described as "defeatist", the RF MFA press office said.
Blocking UN resolution on Kosovo providing for sovereignty under international supervision, Russia insists on an agreement between Belgrade and Pristina. Meanwhile, Washington doesn't conceal its intention to recognize independence of Kosovo. The EU adheres to a similar position.
"The Russian leadership has never stated that it will recognize Abkhazia and South Ossetia in case of Kosovo independence," he said. "Russia perfectly understands what kind of consequences any separatist process can have."
Lavrov said everything should be done to resolve the status of Kosovo within the framework of international law, rather than assuming independence would come, an approach he described as "defeatist", the RF MFA press office said.
Blocking UN resolution on Kosovo providing for sovereignty under international supervision, Russia insists on an agreement between Belgrade and Pristina. Meanwhile, Washington doesn't conceal its intention to recognize independence of Kosovo. The EU adheres to a similar position.
