Kenya’s Recognition of Kosovo Sparks Diplomatic Tensions with Serbia
Kenya has sparked a diplomatic rift with Serbia after President William Ruto recognized Kosovo as an independent state on Wednesday. This move comes despite Kosovo’s lack of full United Nations membership, primarily due to opposition from Serbia and its allies, Russia and China, who hold veto power in the UN.
Former Kosovo President Behgjet Pacolli, who has been advocating for Kosovo’s recognition since 2009, shared images and statements on his Facebook page showing President Ruto signing the recognition letter. This makes Kenya the first country in five years to officially recognize Kosovo. Pacolli emphasized his long-standing efforts to have Kosovo’s right to freedom, independence, and sovereignty acknowledged
.The Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the recognition, stating that the decision aligns with the country’s commitment to international peace, security, and territorial integrity. The Ministry further emphasized that the recognition aims to strengthen relations with countries in the Balkans.
President Ruto’s recognition of Kosovo adds to the complex geopolitical situation, as Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia in 2008, but has faced significant opposition from Serbia and its allies. As a result, Kosovo has not yet been able to secure a UN membership.
Serbia, viewing Kenya’s action as an “unacceptable and hostile act,” swiftly condemned the decision. The Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement expressing its strong disapproval, asserting that Kenya’s recognition of Kosovo violated the UN Charter and Serbia’s sovereignty. The statement also referenced UN Security Council Resolution 1244, which guarantees Serbia’s territorial integrity.
Serbia has indicated that it will take all necessary diplomatic and political measures in response, signaling a potential severance of diplomatic ties with Kenya. It reaffirmed its commitment to defending its sovereignty by all available diplomatic and legal means.
Former President of Kosovo, Behgjet Pacolli, next to President William Ruto (centre), flanked by Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi (right) and Jetlir Zyberaj (left) at State House, March 26, 2025.
While the exact motivations behind Kenya’s decision remain unclear, Kosovo’s need for skilled workers in fields such as construction and healthcare could be an area of potential interest for Kenya’s government, as they explore future collaborations