December 6, 2007 - 14:07 AMT
Russia's intractability will lead Kosovo to EU and NATO protectorate
"Russia's not supporting a unilateral proclamation of Kosovo's independence will result in determination of the province's status in the framework of the EU and NATO but not UN," said Charles A. Kupchan, a senior fellow at the U.S. Council on Foreign Relations (CFR).

A new outburst of ethnic violence is probable in the region with Albanian majority and Serbian minority, according to him. "I do not even rule out a split of Kosovo if independence is proclaimed. The issue will go beyond UN reference and, consequently, military contingent will turn over to NATO capable to prevent collisions," he said. "Pristina's unilateral proclamation of independence is predetermined. At that, establishment of international legitimacy will not be an easy task. Nevertheless, Kosovo will be satisfied with de jure independence recognized by the European Union and United States."

"Over 20 EU member states are ready to recognize Kosovo's sovereignty; the others will have to accept the situation. Despite protests, Belgrade will not use force. Kosovo for Serbia is the same as Jerusalem for Israel and Palestine. Actually, Belgrade understands that it has lost Kosovo," the expert said, RIA Novosti reports.

The UN Security Council is scheduled to discuss troika's report on Kosovo December 19.