Kosovo took measures on Saturday to restore water and power supplies and beefed up security at strategic sites after an explosion at a canal that supplies water to two main power plants, with Pristina calling the incident an “act of terrorism” by neighbouring Serbia.
Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti called the explosion a terrorist attack. He explained that parts of Kosovo could be without electricity from Saturday morning if the canal is not repaired. The supply of drinking water from it has been suspended.
The explosion occurred in the north of the partially recognised republic, near the village of Zubin Potok. No injuries have been reported and the extent of the damage remains unspecified.
According to the local water supply company Ibar-Lepenci, an explosive device was thrown into the water channel, causing damage to the wall of the bridge. The incident was confirmed by Kallxo.
Meanwhile, Serbian Foreign Minister Marko Djuric said that Belgrade strongly condemns the explosion on the Ibar-Lepenac canal in the autonomous province of Kosovo and Metohija. The diplomat noted that Prime Minister Albin Kurti had “rushed to point the finger at Belgrade” without evidence.
The Serbian diplomat called on international bodies to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation to identify and bring to justice those responsible. He also said that such unfounded accusations “undermine efforts for constructive dialogue” and lead to an escalation of tensions.
Djuric said Belgrade is ready to provide financial and technical assistance to repair the damage, if necessary, and to “demonstrate commitment to the well-being of all people in the region, regardless of ethnic or political affiliation.”
