An explosion on Friday evening near Zubin Potok, in northwest Kosovo, seriously damaged a section of the Ibar-Lepenac canal, essential to the country's drinking water supply and energy production. This incident marks “the worst attack on infrastructure” since the end of the 1998-1999 war, according to the Kosovar government, which points the finger at Serbia as responsible. For its part, Belgrade denies any involvement.
The canal plays a vital role for thousands of homes and two thermal power plants necessary for Kosovo's energy network. While the attack has not yet interrupted electricity production, it has sharply reduced the water supply, ensuring only a quarter of the usual needs on Saturday morning.
Investigation and arrests
The Kosovo government, supported by local and international forces, launched a large investigative operation, raiding ten sites and arresting eight suspects. According to Kosovar Minister of the Interior, Xhelal Svecla, these acts constitute “organized terrorism”, involving professional groups. Weapons, military uniforms and various equipment were seized, reinforcing suspicions of careful preparation.
Kosovar Prime Minister Albin Kurti visited the scene of the explosion and affirmed that only organized groups with the capabilities and motivation could have carried out such an operation. He named Serbia as the main instigator, an accusation that Belgrade describes as “baseless”.
International reactions
The incident drew strong condemnations from the European Union, the United States, France and Turkey. Josep Borrell, the EU's top representative, described the attack as “terrorist” and called for immediate de-escalation. France has called for in-depth investigations, while Turkey has offered support to ease tensions.
KFOR, NATO's mission in Kosovo, is now monitoring strategic installations, strengthening security measures to prevent possible new attacks. The Kosovo government has also intensified monitoring of critical infrastructure.
Serbia's position
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic denounced a “hybrid attack” aimed at discrediting Serbia and destabilizing the region. He stressed that Belgrade is conducting its own investigation and called for calm. The Serbian List, the main political party representing Kosovo Serbs, also condemned the attack, while calling for an impartial international investigation.
A context of persistent tensions
Relations between Kosovo and Serbia remain tense, with regular spikes in violence, particularly in Serb-majority areas in the north. The incident comes weeks before crucial parliamentary elections in Kosovo, fueling fears of rising tensions. Experts say the attack could further complicate the already fragile talks between Belgrade and Pristina under the auspices of the European Union.
