Unidentified gunmen shot dead a Lithuanian member of the European Union’s police force in Kosovo.
Reports say the deadly attack took place in a region controlled by ethnic Serbs who reject Albanian majority Kosovo’s 2008 declaration of independence.
The attack was noted to be the first deadly attack on the mission since its creation five years ago.
The EU mission known as EULEX reported that one staff member was killed when two of its vehicles, carrying six staff was under fire from unidentified persons in the municipality of Zvecan.
US condemns the attack
In a press statement in Washington DC, Deputy Spokesperson on Marie Harf expressed condemnation on the attack against the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) where a Lithuanian EULEX staff member was killed.
“We extend our condolences to the family of the victim and his injured colleague.” – Ms. Harf
She adds that there is no space for violence, threats and intimidation in modern Kosovo.
The US government urged all parties to work constructively together to investigate those responsible for this crime and to bring them to justice.
“We join High Representative Ashton in calling for a redoubling of efforts in implementing the agreements already reached.” -Ms. Harf
The European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo, EULEX Kosovo, is composedof European Union (EU) police and civilians to Kosovo. EULEX has around 3,200 police and judicial personnel. The mission’s mandate was extended to 2014.
