Umer, Bradford, England (UK) has summed up a lot of nonsense in one fell swoop. serbs killed albanians, but people tend to forget that albanians killed just as many serbs, if not more. plus croats etc.

this is NOT as simple as that, people.

michael, manchester,

I am a Serb and i believe in human rights Lynn. But we the Serbs did not bomb America and did not finance the terorists to destroy the twin towers. Kosovo (Serbs) were under the turks for 500 years and did not forget that Kosovo is and always will be Serbia. America (your foreighn ministar) wants us to look to the future not the past but then wat we wil learn.
One thing i agree with you the American financial support should be stoped, the world would be a lot more FREEAR.

dr, BOB, melbourne, australia

If you want proof that Kosovo is part of Serbia, you should visit the nearly 1000 classic 12th century Serbian medieval churches, monasteries and holy sites in Kosovo. Kosovo is the historical, religious, and cultural heart of Serbia. It is their Rome, Jerusalem and Mecca. If the Albanians of Kosovo do not want to live in Serbia, they can move to Albania where they belong. But we cannot move the Serbian physical and structural heritage from Kosovo to Serbia. Do we need two Albanias in this world for 4 million Albanians when there are only 190 states for 6 billion people in this world?

George C. Thomas, Milwaukee, USA

I dont like the opinion that most western people have about Serbia and Serbians. Serbians were isolated by post-comunistic dictator president, and after he was taken off power, things started going better. Many economical agreements were signed with EU, and on recent presidential elections, pro EU candidate won. Not even full day after they ended, EU gave green light to kosovo's goverment to declare independence, thus making Serbian people feel betrayed and backstabbed. And if that had to happen, they shouldnt wait for the elections to end and give people here false hope to chose wrong person for president.

As for Kosovo, it was not 90% albanian population earlier. But those figures changed in last 8 years when border with Albania wasnt controled and most of the serbs were driven out from Kosovo and Metohija. They now are refugees in their own country.

Nikola M., Kraljevo, Serbia

I think that Kosovo, deserves the independance, after all that the people of the state/country went through over these years. I thoroughly think that it was for the best and it will stop more Albanians being killed in Kosovo without any valid reason. The majority of Kosovo wanted independacne from Serbia as it is.

Umer, Bradford, England (UK)

Jean I for one think what happened to the American Indian a wrong that has no right. However the Lakota People in North and South Dakota, Wyoming, Nebraska and Montana would not even be 1 % of the population in that area today. But go ahead blame the US for this because it's our entire fault right? What should the US have done? Denounce the fact that 95% of the population wanted this and let the other 5% with the help of the surrounding Serbs finish the job of "cleansing "(that term makes me sick) that molosavitch started.Ya that’s good huh?

Mike, San Diego, USA

Just a follow up Jean. I guess you think that the US should still be a part of the UK?

Mike, San Diego, USA

I'd like to first say, this is NOT the same as the Basques, french canadians, hispanics in CA, nor any other example given. I have researched enough to know that it's almost too close to call as to whether Kosovo should be free or a part of Serbia. Both sides DO have valid points... both sides have participated in ethnic atrocities... and yes, I can understand the Serbian point of view. However...

We do not live in the year 1389. This was pointed out well in a previous post. Should Italy be granted all Europe for once having conqured it? Should Constantinople be wrested from Turkey as it was once such a historical center? Of course not. There are 90% albanian people in Kosovo... and in present times, the present serbian government has partaken in a deliberate attempt to stifle the majority. If this situation is comparable to anything, it's apartheid in South Africa.... for all the history, it doesn't matter... 1389 does not justify apartheid.

Aaron, Canon City,

i agree 100% w/ mike as well. i'm all about spreading freedom and democracy to people and countries who want it.after all who in their right minds don't want to be free.problem is governments controlled by misguided leadership w/ noones interests but their own power in mind control these countries thru whatever means available to them.you know the old saying absolute power corrupts absolutly.but i digress,my point is theres nothing wrong with letting the world know that the united states of america both promote and support freedom everywhere in the world whereever it may be.although how far we go to support that fredgeling freedom is up for debate.as we all see this situation has caused obvious reprocussions, some that may yet to be seen.perhaps our on issues should be addressed first then provide help to those who have worked out all these issues within their own enviroments so that our efforts are not wasted on the disillusioned

jim, bristol,

If anyone's ever been and lived in Serbia for a while, like I have, would understand why Kosovo's independence really is hurtful to the Serbian national mindset. As an American, the closest thing I can imagine would be if Candadian immigrants took over state governments along the east coast and decided that the entire original thirteen states should succeed. All of our oldest and dearest history as a nation would suddenly be gone to people who don't hold it at the same reverence. The difference is, the American hisotrical memory is only a few hundred years old. Serbian national history goes back over a millenia. They've been a people much longer than Americans and the history that they're loosing cuts straight to the core of who they are. From my experience in the Kosovo region, it's quite clear the Albanians don't have any reverence for those things because they are Albanian.

Jonathan, Oxford, MS, USA

Jean fromToronto is RIGHT!!! This creates the precent to separatist movement all over the world . This is CHAOS!!!

Liviu, Cleveland , OH

At the end of World War II the Voivodship of Lvov was taken from Poland and given to the Ukraine. The Poles had to deal with it. Lvov is for Poland what Kosovo is for Serbia. Those are the breaks. The old Yugoslav borders were drawn up by one man, Tito, for political reasons that were relevant in the 1950s. Tell these Serbs to grow up. If they don't like the current realities of democracy they can go cry on the shoulders of Tito and Milosevic or otherwise stop living in the past and get on with the 21st Century.

Michael, Potomac Falls, Virginia USA

Kosovo deserves indipendence.those people they been suffer for centuries. every country in world has minorities but they minorities they have rights.serbia is problem in balkans. they had kosovo but they dont know how to keep it.

geri, chicago, il,usa

I'd also like to point out that blaming the US or the west is ridiculous. Nobody carved out Serbia, save the recent Serbian policies. Had recent times not been well nigh apartheid, perhaps Kosovo would have no reason to declare a split. Obviously, this was not the case. Had Kosovo NOT declared independance, then in all probability, it would NEVER have been the case. Kosovo declared it's own independance. The US certainly didn't write a new amendment to the constitution declaring independance for Kosovo. The US and the west simply recognized it's declaration. Recognition is hardly meddling, anymore than whistling and looking away and pretending we didn't hear would be "meddling in the affairs of Kosovars."

Aaron, Canon City,

OK, let's look at it from another angle. The Lakotah People have decided to unilaterally withdraw from all treaties with the United States, and have declared the Republic of Lakotah, which compromises part of North and South Dakota, Wyoming, Nebraska and Montana. What if China or Russia decided to recognize The Republic of Lakotah as a new country? I doubt the US would be very pleased, and I imagine there would be quite a bit of unrest in those states, indeed, in much of the USA. Yet in essense, this is the same thing that the US is doing with Kosovov. The US would never in a million years recognize the Rupublic of Lakotah, whose claims against the US government are valid, yet are quick to recognize a territory from across the world that wants to succede from its mother country. Why the double standard?

Jean, Toronto, Canada

200. 000 uncivilised people, chanting to kill Albanians, and there are people who still wonder why Kosovo declared independence?

yllka, London, UK

I agree with MIke of San Diego, why is it that the US is always at fault. Let's bring our money homne and let them all kill each other off if that's what they want. I believe in human rights but for gods sake doesn't anyone else. Why can't people let other people live their own lives. The Serbs hate the Albanians...so let them have there own state. When are humans going to stop hurting each other...we are really all the same and we all want to live freely according to our OWN agenda. The US isn't at fault for everything we are just FREE and thank my ancestors and every veteran for that. I am so glad I am tucked nicely in America....let them fight it out on their own and for gods sake bring the financial support back to America and let's get our own economy back on track.

Lynn, Salinas, USA

There should not be any doubt that the Serb governement knew very well that foreign embassies were a target and did not do anything to stop the protesters. Nato must send more troops to Kosovo to protect Kosovars from this hooligans who will certainly massacre ethnic Albanians if they ever entered Kosovo.

Adam, Minneapolis, United States

For all of those that flaunt their ignorance talking about Kosova as the "heartland" of Serbia, please open the history books and you'll find that Kosova, which was historically populated by a very large Albanian majority was occupied by Serbia in 1912, when the Ottoman empire collapsed. The propaganda of the Serbian Academy of Sciencies has done a splendid job convincing Serbs that "Kosova is Serbia". Well, Kosova has never been and will never be Serbia. Historically, these Illyrian lands have been populated by Albanians, the proud decendents of Ilyrians.

When it comes to mordern times, one can easily see that the United States and the civilized Western World fully supports the Kosovar Independence. USA and Europe have not forgotten that Serbian police and military murdered over 10,000 Albanians in less than six months. Serbian evil dressed as nationalism unleashed the hatred by raping and massacring the innocent Albanians. These days are history in making. Kosova is Independent.

Ervin Pilku, New York, NY

Presumably, now that the UK government has recognised the unilateral declaration of independence by Kosovo, it will similarly respect the wish of Berwick-upon-Tweed to become part of Scotland.

John, Gloucestershire, England

I think serbians should just move on yeah they might won kosov in 1300S but so what now should rome want all europe because it ruled it once . I mean come one people move on its 21 century not 13th adn serbians wanted whole yugoslavia to be big serbian thats why war started they killed so many people in bosnia nobody stoped that and they took over thats why its called serbian republic just check out on youtube the resistance of bosnia was heard to the sky it tell the whole story what serbians did too poor cevilians they are getting what they asked for what can i say karam sucks

Carla, chicago, il

Right on Ingen of Florida, look at history. Serbs kill Albanians and then expect them to be grateful to be part of Serbia. If the Albanians want to be Free then they should be. If some country was killing all of my polish friends then I would certainly want to get free of them. Duh!

Lynn, Salinas, USA

For some of you... read the history before you make any coments about kosovo..Kosovo has been taken by force by the serbs in 1912. since then, serbs have killed them, rapted their woman and forced the out of their own houses.. Furthermore, what about Sllovenia, kroacia, macedonia?? wheren't they a part of yugosllavia too..

AM , Bronx NY, US

i am happy that kosovo got there independence because serbia wanted to control whole yugoslavia they wanted it to be "big serbia" thats why the war started in yugoslavia and it caused it to split. All i can say karma sucks you wanted it all now you are loseing it all. Just go to youtube and search the resistance of bosnia was heard to the sky it tells the whole strory and what serbian people did.They dont like anyone else but them selfs. They will act like they like you but in the end when it doesnt go there way they will stab you in the back. No wonder no one wants to be with them. So i am very happy for kosovo

Carla, chicago, il

Look people, Serbia has clearly showed that it is not capable of co-exsisting with Kosovo. You Serbs act like you did nothing wrong, as if the enthnic cleaning was just a bump in the road of your nations troubled history. Maybe if Serbia had figured out how to co-exsist many many years ago then you wouldn't be in this mess.

But comparing this to Latinos in Texas or parts of the UK is absurd. It's more like Tiawan or Tibet.

Saying its all the Wests fault is an easy way to not look at your selves and figure out why it didn't work.

BECAUSE YOU'RE INTOLERANT of others.

blaming everything on the US and EU is starting to feel a lot like the Nazis blaming everything on the Jews...

Jason, Fullerton, Ca, United States

I do not believe the US should play any part in this conflict. Much of the current problem stems from the creation of Yugoslavia after WW1 and the subsequent creation of the Socialist Republic, which was the Russia's doing. There were many mistakes made as far a territorial boundaries and claims in both post war periods. This problem should be handled exclusively by The European Union. The US recognition of Kosovo should depend on the EU's decision. Russia should also keep out of the dispute- their involvement since the end of WW2 was nothing more than part of its Cold War strategy to domiante Europe.

Paul, Los Angeles, CA

Just to add something else. After reading these comments, I could clearly see one thing: the only argument Albanians (I recognise their names)have when talking about their "thing" is that Serbs are Barbarians or ethnic cleansing. Unfortunately, I know some German and British diplomats who used to live in Kosovo and totally disagree with theofficial politics of their countries. But why?
Gosh, I read history and I can say that there were many periods when the Albanians use to expel Serbs from Kosovo, even during the WWII. Also, I read some statistics. In the past some 50% of the inhabitants of Kosovo were Serbs. After the "Ethnic cleansing" there are just 10% Serbs left and there are 90% of the Albanians. WHo did the Serbs "ethnically cleanse"? Maybe themselves. Can anybody explain this simple maths.... Where did the Serbs go? Where did the Albanians come from? I would appreciate the explanation of how the Albanian population managed to grow in number to such an extent.

John, Frankfurt, Germany

Now i suppose you guys know how Arabs feel about the creation of "Israel". Supposedly, the land given to them by God?

Mohammed, London, UK

92% of the Kosovo population is ethnic Albanian. 4% is Serbian. If that 92% of the population had been allowed to have an equal say in Serbian politics, then I would not understand why they wanted to secede. However, as soon as Slobodan Milosevic came to power he revoked Kosovo's status as an autonomous province, severely limiting their control over their own lives. At the same time Milosevic launched propoganda campaigns against the ethnic Albanians. If Serbia wants to maintain control over Kosovo then it should offer Kosovo's population equal treatment. And for all those condemning US and European intervention, I suggest that you read The Tenth Circle of Hell by Rezak Hukanovic, and then decide if whether or not it is right to take action. If the international community is finally ready to start acting on their genocide prevention policies, I think that it is for the best.

Alison, Reading,

The 19. century and Serbia was under the control of Ottoman Empire. There were a lot of muslim people before Serbians wanted their independent from Turks. They finally got what they want through the end of this century. The number of muslim people has gradually decreased after that. Kosovo is composed of 95% muslim people which remained from Ottoman effect on this territory. Serbians didn't behave Kosovo people well. So Kosovo people wanted the independence like Serbians did. That's the whole story.

Nikki, Athens, Greece

I have looked and carefully studied the history of the Balkans, and so I now ask Ingen from Florida, you say that Kosovo was not a part of Serbia, well then whose was it? It was never, ever Albanian.

Michael, Windsor, Canada

If the USA is so terrible, then why is it we have to put up with your immigrants coming here to live? Why is it that it seems foreign immigrants get more tax breaks, can start their own businesses and run our 7-11's? The immigrants have taken over ownership of most hotel chains, got rich off our dollars, then send it away to their families in foreign countries!
I feel the same way as most countries do...America needs to mind our own business, and keep our own business here. But i guess if that happens, we would be subjected to more commercials on television about how we need to help feed the world. I don't agree with everything this country has done, but don't bust on it and expect us to keep buying your products to make your country flourish. And for heaven's sake, keep your people there. We like tourists, not tax-'free-loaders'.

Angela, Harrisburg, USA, PA

The spread of Democracy should not scare you away. It is what it is. People want to be free. Accepting it will set you free.

Tringa Gocjaj, B.Ham, Mi

It is sad that after all these years of abuse, persecution, and awful mass killings that the Serbs did to the Kosovo people, there is so much debate of either it is right for Kosovo to get her independence.
If you had seen the Serbians going to Kosovo and cut babies arms and legs in front of their parents and so, so many other unbearable acts of violence and torture, I believe that anyone with a heart would sympathize with Kosovo wanting to get her independence.
Let each govern their own country. 95% of Kosovo are Albanians and they say Kosovo is Serbia???????
Please, all of you, read the history. Look at the maps of old history books and study carefully the history of the Balkans and then claim Kosovo to be part of Serbia.

Ingen, Florida, USA

It amazes me no matter what happens in the world it’s the US’s fault. How very convenient for the rest of you to have a fall dog like the US.I especially loved the guy from China sounding off, I guess it was US tanks in Tiananmen Square and our troops that have been killing anyone who dares to speak up against the government there. The Serb government blaming the US for the looting and rioting their citizens are doing is a joke. I don’t pretend to know world politics, but the funny thing is I agree with most of you. The US should pull all of its assets back to sovereign territory. Then all you world here of course from the rest of world is how could the US just stand by and watch while the strong kill the week. Why don’t you all just say what you really mean, leave us alone just keep sending the money

Mike, San Diego, USA

kosovo is kosovo ..simply as that...
is not albenia, and is never ...and is never going to be serbia..
belong to the ppl from kosovo and not terrorists from serbia

americ, orlando, usa,florida

Um obviously known of you heard of World War One?

Richard, Tracy,

My heart goes out to everyone affected by this. I really hope the Kosovans are able to make their country work, and be viable.

However to be honest, I'm more sympathetic to the Serbs - It seems to me as though serbia was not consulted at all in this and I don't think that we have a right to mess around with other countries' borders, no matter what they did. It will only lead to both countries becoming more and more destablised, and the Russians have now threatened to use force.

In the past 7 years Serbia has tried to make itself more democractic in order to try and join the EU and the stupid actions of our arrogant leaders will just make this less likely, undo all of their progress and make war a possibility again, not just there but in other countries as well - I mean, does this mean that Republika Srpska will get its independence as well?

The US and UK just think they know better than everyone else about countries they don't even know the first thing about or care about.

rach, reading,

It's not about independence. Kosovo is part of serbia for last couple of centurys. In 1389 at Kosovo almost all serbian men population died in battle with turkey. After 350 years they deffited turkish army and forced them to retreit. Also on Kosovo is houndred of christian churches an most of them are old couple of century. Now albanian people over ther fire up thouse churches, and that is not a war against serbian. that is a war against christians. You said that 10% populations in kosovo are serbians. Yes, that is througt, but that is after airstraikes 1999 . Before that was 30-70, but in that 70 was other people not just albanians. They are muslims, and it's not a independence from serbia, it's about to create a new muslims country in europe. And just for a record Hitler trayed to do that 1941. He didn's succed but now they did. No matter what serbian do in serbia, you suppouse to know that serbian people will always be a throuly friend of all western world.

Miki, chicago, usa

The Kosovan situation is a pure double standards.

The Albanians were saved by NATO and the UN from being ethnically cleansed from Serbia (Kosovo) after having created a separistist insurgency. The Serbs were ethnically cleansed from Croatio(Krajina) from 1995 and nothing was done to stop it or to redress it.

Watch how the Serb Bosnian Republic will prepare itself to declare independence. If it is good enough for Kosovo any ethnically concentrated territory anywhere should be able to do the same.

Watch out Turkey! You have accepted Kosovo be prepared to accept Kurdistan

Serbia should expell the ambassadors of those nations that have removed its territory . Neand Russia should prepare for war against any attempted land grab of it's own territory.

If Kosovo cannot be returned to Serbia, then the Serb dominated areas should be separated fand returned to Serbia.

This should be a lesson for any people who allow immigrants to populate and dominate any part of it's territory

Ed, London,

Bravo all Serbs!

Time to stop american aggression world wide.

it is shame that a Country calling itself democratic supoorts, arms and finances dictators, military generals, despots, militants and terrorists around the world.

Remember America is the one which armed and financed it's 'darling' OSAMA BIN lADEN when he was nobody!

Mo, Townsend, USA

Garley
Is it so bad that a large body of people amassed in a certain region want to form their own country?....if it is the will of the people to become independent, it should be done.

In the united states, if the majority of Californians want independence from the united states...it should be done.

larry, kennewick, washington

Bottomline: sidelining the United Nation or its legal instruments by U.S. Presidents did not start with Mr. Bush nor it would end with his presidency. Serbs has to wake up and become adept with PR. Resist the West’s ploy to divide you as “majority moderates” and “violent hardliner nationalists”. I just heard today in one of public radio programs in U.S. as one talking head or so-called expert saying that poll indicates that majority Serbs do not consider Kosovo’s independence worth fighting for. To your leaders who are keen to please the West, ask them what good their close friendship to the West for the last four or five years has brought to Serbia except promise of ‘fast-track’ to Europe. Speaking of Kostunica’s allies as hardliners may get you favor from Western emissaries but does not do good to your cause. Show solidarity to one another in these times of agony.
I DO NOT condone violence wherever it comes form but It is pathetic to see the Western media trying to spin it.

Mamadou, Columbia, MD,

Long live Repubik of KOSOVA Thank You USA UK Franc Germany Itali Australia Austria Albania Afganistan Irland lituania Latvia Estonia all of demokratik Countrys Thank You Thank You Thank You.

Azren Koka, Wels, Austria

Majority of the world bemoan this lamentable act. The West has shown contemptibility towards Serbia for its interest whatever that may be, perhaps a Freudian Slip repression or subliminal messages of Western powers flexing and self-asserting his muscle towards Russia or maybe an excuse to please the Muslims for other future pitiable agenda. Whatever it may be, the Serbian land grab for peace is illegal. It sets a precedent for more to come. Counterproductive and it's disgusting! I believe the UN is the only true arbiter in the world stage, not the Americans nor NATO. Hitler committed a crime against the Jews, Milosevic indicted in Hague for his act, Why crucified Serbia? There is no prima facie evidence against the people of Serbia. It was their leader who committed those heinous crimes. Kosovo is always Serbia, history, monastery, borders recognized by UN/IBAB Res Ipsa Loquitur, evidence and Kosovo history speaks for itself!

John, Vancouver, Canada

Charles, I'll be brief: the government does care since they are truly, honestly afraid of Mr Bush, as every 'good' government is, but the people (including myself) don't.

Bori, Nottingham, UK

This week I am ashamed to be both Australian...and part of the "civilized" western world.

In the week that has seen a totally pre-planned, synchronised, yet internationally unlawful recognition of Kosovar independence, these same countries turn a blind eye to Turkey's "foray" into Northern Iraq to weed out the PKK "terrorists" seeking their own autonomy.

We really do live in a silly world at times.

If we truly lived in a normal place, we'd be fair and be backing a millitary stoush against Turkey for its "oppression and one likewise against Russia for treading all over Chechnya.

But I won't hold my breath.....

I will however look forward to Hispanics getting their own state in Southern California or Texas, the Basques in northern Spain/southern France....and why not throw in our Quebecois friends in Canada for good measure.

After all ain't they the majority in Quebec?

It's getting increasingly hard not to be cynical when events like this happen....

Peter, Sydney, australia

The important issue here is that if they are "non essential" staff, why are they being paid a salary courtesy of our tax dollars???

In the business world, non-essential workers are referred to as "fired"....

Marco, Miami, FL USA

To: natalia, Moscow, Russia

Are you sure that you know the history of Kosovo aand the Serbian people ?

It seems that the the history and the future of Kosovo is decided not by fact but by emotion by Americans, Europeans and Russians alike.

Howard, London, UK

i love how the U.N. and the US goverment uses such strong words to condem the riots. Do you really think that the serbian goverment or its people really care?

charles caccard, depew, ny

the US should simply break of diplomatic relations with Serbia, and discourage US corporations from investing or doing business there. Obviously, the authorities there allowed this to happen, if not outright encourage it. The serbs need to be shown there will consequences to these kinds of events.

Rob, Honolulu, USA

The embassies of US and other countries deserve it!!!! They are completely rediculous! If serbia has the resposibility to protect the embassies of them, aren't them have the responsiblity to protect the integrity of Serbia?! Isn't that shameful act of supporting the independence of Kosovo intolerable?!

Charles , Qingdao, China

Hopefully, this is the beginning of the end of the EU nightmare, that has kept England in chains since 1973. Some of the EU have acknowledged Kosova, some have not.
Soon the Basques, may get their freedom from Spain, then (maybe) the old Alsace Lorraine from France?, how about the minorities in Belgium (a country of how many languages?). Even the United Kingdom is becoming separate nations now with the call for Scottish (and may I add English) separatism.
Europe is not one country, never has been, never will.
If only our leaders were forced to read European history to PhD level before getting power we may get decent government, based on our differences not perceived similarities.

Howard, Basildon, England

Isnt it a bit rich the Americans feeling hard done by that their embassy was burned, when it was they along with NATO, blew up the Chinese Embassy in Belgrade a few years back " by accident" and killing 3 people?

patrick, The hague, NETHerlands

Kosovo is serbian, and will never be anything els.
those that think outherwise stand by and watch what happens now,
At the very least we could have seperated the provinces with majority serb populations and put them with serbia, but in there arrognace the u,s, and eu, went blindly ahead whith there plan, in spite of the predictions of things to come.

we have been on the wrong side in the balkens for some time,
and i hope we dont live to regreat it.

james e coy, hartshorne, oklahoma u.s.

I think every country would protest the illegal break-up of its country...I mean if Austria took over Germany (Bavaria), I would love to see the peaceful acceptance then by the German people. I would use Texas and California as examples, but that's already known. You break international law claiming that it's an exception, but what will happen when that exception turns on you. And on top of all that, this whole thing was pushed and practicaly forced to create tension between the United States and Russia. Why is the United States even sticking its head into Europe's issues when its own people are dealing with severe social and economical issues?

Nicole, Los Angeles, USA

lets ask what does gernany have to gain in all this? why was germany so supportive of the kla all along? while were on the subject of giving away countries-lets give texas to the mexicans or better yet give them california. on a smaller scale lets give every tennant their apartment, as long as they paid rent for over 15 years, they paid long enough, they deserve to own the property.

catherine, chicago, illinois

After Kosovo, should not the Hungarians of Transylvania also declare independence from Romanian rule?

Romano, Tulsa,

daniel, los angeles, united states
"Allowing mobs to essentially enroach upon sovereign territory of another nation is the wrong way."

Are you talking about Albanians taking over Serbian Kosovo? In this case you are right mate! Pass this message to your goverment, please.

Oleg, Toronto, Canada

If a group of people want to separate and form their own nation or region, what's the big deal? We strive so hard to keep "countries" together? What's wrong with the Kosovars having their own country and the Serbs having theirs? Or the people of Quebec doing their own thing apart from the rest of the Canda? Or in Spain? Romania? China? Time for everyone to grow up and stop repressing others for the sake of borders.

As for the violence...the argument that there's no sympathy for a particular group because they didn't think things through is just garbage. Violence is never an answer to a problem, no matter how you feel about a particular people or situation. The Serbian police should have stopped the protests, no matter what their stance. What if the embassy had been fully staffed and innocent people were hurt or killed? Those embassy workers don't make foreign policy.

Keith, Raleigh, NC USA, United States

It always astounds me how people equate freedom movements with Quebec separatism. If Quebec separated, there would be no riots. The Cree would then separate from Quebec and Quebec would probably join the United States. The people of Quebec are the most nationalistic Canadians. They actually saved Canada from being annexed to the U.S. They are always the first to join any military conflict abroad. In other words, there is no one in Canada who is more Canadian than the people of Quebec. The only reason for "separatism" is that Quebec wants to be recognised as a non-English speaking nation within Canada.

Philip Suthons, Toronto, Canada

I have only one thing to say.
Remember 1995 Dayton? Remember partitioning Bosnia in to the Serbian and Muslim-Croatian federation. Well ... remember it well, because in the next episode the serbian goverment and people will apply your western, newly discovered methods of interpreting and applying the International Law! When you hear about new referendum on secesion from Bosnia of Republika Srpska, do not accuse the Serbs again! They just learned your ways.

branko, Chicago, USA

Something to keep in mind is that the Balkans have always been factionalized, and that Yugoslavia was an ill-conceived construct held together only by authoritarianism. It's no surprise that it broke up after communism fell. Kosovo is just the most recent example of a region concluding that it is better off outside Serbia's sphere of influence. It has been autonomous since 1999, and even under Tito it enjoyed special status, primarily because Tito did not want Serbia dominating the Yugoslav republic. Bosnia remains the region's remaining powder kegs. However, Slovenia and Croatia are a lot better off for having split, Macedonia is improving, Montenegro has parted ways (slightly more amicably, but just slightly), and now Kosovo is looking to achieve the benefits of independence. It's time to declare the idea of Greater Serbia dead.

Kathryn, Chicago, IL,USA

For everyone supporting this declaration you should be ashamed of yourselves. Regardless of the serbs history it's not right for others to determine their future. The serbs were for the last 7 years working towards a democratic society and EU nomination. For outside parties to step in and cut their country in half and give it people who have no claim to it disgusts me. All this did was open the door for every other seperatist society to succede. What if all the predominately muslim societies in england, germany, france, sweden etc decided to break away and form their own nations, would you support them also. The EU is going to destroy europe not unite it, and all they did with this endorsement was allow another nation to roam freely around europe and exploit the fact that the EU is the worst organization ever created. And the USA backing this sickens me even more. I would love to see what would happen if texas or california tried this...That idea would fall on it's face.

Rico, Cleveland,

"Nicholas Burns, the US Assistant Secretary of State, today accused Russia of being less than helpful in the current crisis."

America, and its cohorts, created this crisis, though its illegal activities in the Balkans. Moreover, if America feels itself justified in breaking international law with impunity, then why should it be surprised when the Serbs protest at their own legal (and internationally recognised) borders being redrawn against their will by a hostile, interfering nation.

It may be a bitter pill for the US to swallow, but Russia, along with everyone else who rejects this illegal UDI, hold the higher moral ground.

If the US really thinks itself justified in this, then it should have had no problem defending itself in the ICC in the Hague - something it continues to oppose. I wonder why...

w, Northern Ireland, UK

i dont really think that any of the ill minded headdless zombies should even speak of Kosovo if they are not informed.
live and let live???
Thats relally optimistic thought.
so what about palestinians?
what about catalonia?
what happens with ireland?
what is happening with kurds?
u wanna know what...NOTHING!!
and nothing is happening becouse korsica or palestinians dont have strong narko cartels in america and around the globe,they cant go to american conggres and ask simply..HOW MUCH.
and let me tell u one more thing b4 u speak of my country again and so called victims albanian..

Nikola, Belgrade, Serbia

This is an absolute travesty and shameful disregard for any form of international law or so-called democratic diplomacy. To completely disregard the opinions of someone's own country, which Kosovo has been since Medieval times, is unfathomable. The US and Western Europe have completely and blatantly told the world that whatever it is they want they get. Why they support a once terrorist riddled Albanian, yes ethnically Albanian not so-called Kosovar, they are Albanians that had immigrated from Albania, is absolutely beyond comprehension.

Yes, the acts of rioting in Belgrade are unacceptable and unfortunate, but, how much more humility can the people of Serbia endure. Whatever happened to Pre-Slobo days of autonomy for Albaniain peoples living within the borders of Serbia. Yes, they had rights and control of their destiny then. Geez, nobody complained back then. Do not judge the Serbian people for what past misled leaders have done in the past. We all would like to see true peace.

Boro, Toronto, Canada

Nobody wants to talk about or widely report on the Serbians being killed this entire time in Kosovo. Why is everybody only worried about the muslims in Kosovo?

Steve, Colo. Spgs.,

Why isn't anyone talking about Albanians beating up and terrorising Sebs in Kosovo for the last 50 years? Ethnic clensing has been going on there for decades, and was administered by Albanians. Why isn't anyone talking about Croatians ethnicly clensing 300,000 Serbs in 1995? There are always two sides of a coin, people.

Gordon, Phoenix, Arizona

Even if you believe the west's support of independence was ill conceived and against international law, there is always a right way and a wrong way to deal with these disagreements. Allowing mobs to essentially enroach upon sovereign territory of another nation is the wrong way. In fact, I applaud the restraint shown by the west, they would have been in their right to use force to repel hostiles attempting to attack and overrun their embassies.

daniel, los angeles, united states

Next, will be Quebec unilateral déclaration of independance

Gagne joss, saguenay, canada

UK abandons the rule of law. Can I now choose which laws I will obey!

Andy, London,

Guys, what barbarian behaviour are you talking about? I wonder what would you do, if the same situation took place in your homeland. Silently look at cutting of your country and humiliation of your nation?

If I were Serbian, i would be in terrible stuck with EU role in this - how to join to EU, leaders of which made this outrageous situation happen?

Alex, Moscow, Russia

When the Germans finished world war two, they were not mad because they got separated in two, but they were ashamed of their actions. Same with South Africa apartheid goverment. Serbia is the country however where they get to be mad, and for what? Failing at their attempt at genocide?
Some people here mention what happens when Texas is that way and Ireland that way. Well, I fully support their independence if the next step of British governments is to start a systematic process of torture, murder, and expulsion.
Nobody asks Serbians any more but to follow the rules of self-determination because they failed at determining for other people. With as much hatred as they are showing, do you really expect that the better solution is close to 2 million Albanians integrated to Belgrade.

Aristotle, Boston, USA

America once again displays that might makes right and that International law only applies to Nations that don't have nuclear weapons and the world's largest military.

Vladimir, Hartford, CT, USA

200. 000 uncivilised people, chanting to kill Albanians, and there are people who still wonder why Kosovo declared independence?

yllka, London, UK

Of course no country wants to be broken up and give up part of its land, but if the only way it maintains control over its people is by trying to kill off an entire section of its population, then there is no choice but to keep the majority apart from the minority, by giving them their own independent territory. Kosovo is a future Israel. They got land that most of them hadn't even set foot on and look how well they are doing for themselves.

Ellen, Tipperary, Ireland

If Ulster decided to become an independant country or to cede to the Irish republic, you can be sure the U.K. would`nt be so eager to back them on that one.

kieran odwyer, Dublin, Ireland

I wonder what will happen when hispanic immigrants want the states in which they form a majority to secede from the union. probably the same thing as happened when the confederate states tried it before.

it's hard to feel sorry for the serbs, though. I'm surprised they didn't ethnically cleane kosovo whilst they still could.

jem, london, uk

It’s time for Serbia to reflect, and move on, instead of becoming a pawn of Russia.

Gazmend Ceno, New York, USA

What, like Serbia is the first country to be broken up after the war and what they did? What about Israel or East Timor? Try to watch the news a little more and pay more attention. After the genocide in the region, I think it's for the best Serbians stick to their own border and Kosovans are allowed to carry on with their lives as normally as possible. I hope Serbia has sanctions implemented on its trade, if it continues its evil, barbaric behavior any longer.

EmmA, London, UK

Sebia ready for the EU?? Serbia and Serbians are barely ready for the 15th century. They are truly the last barbarians of Europe.

JohnC, Macclesfield,

This only confirms that Serbian government and Serbs in general want to be associated and tie up their future to the Russia and ignore Europe. If that is their wish then it should be respected. On the other hand Kosovars, like all other countries surrounding Serbia, have openly declared and are working towards joining EU and see themselves as part of western civilization.

H. Dyzi, Prishtina, Country?(With the greatest pleasure) Kosova

Kosovo is part of the Serbian heartland. It now has a massive immigrant population and they have manipulated the west into supporting the cause. Due to differential birth rates and immigration policy this is our future.

Birmingham 2050AD will have bery few English people left!!!!

John, Highlands, Scotland

The serbs have every right to fight the lillegal break up of their nation. Gordon Brown's decision to recognise this illegal breakaway is a victory for terrorists everywhere.

geg, St Helens,

Nobody ever wondered why EUROPE failed to prevent this shameful independence of Kosovo?!!!
I agree that the Embassies should have been protected better, but the rage of people was tremendous, it was hard to stop them!!
How would you react if somebeody tried to take something that is yours_??????????
Nobody ever tried to find out more about history of Kosovo and Serbian people!
Do you think that they make riots, just like that...just because they like them?!!!
I truly hope that this situation will calm down, and that a pieceful solution will be found.

natalia, Moscow, Russia

It's good to know these 'thugs' are allowed to move over here, free to do whatever they want, now the EU has expanded.

Go on, give me the vote, give me the right to say if I want to be a member of such a europe. Sadly, the government never will, because they know the answer!

Arthur, Newcastle,

Why on earth are the EU trying to admit Serbia etc into Europe?

Ken, Coventry,

Now wait for the 31% of Serbs living in Bosnia demand their own state! Why shouldn't they? After all there are only 14% Albanians in Serbia ...well should I say its now amputated heart called Kosovo...with its 130 churches destroyed already and Serbs ethnically cleansed out of it? I will take any bets that in no time Kosovo will join Albania. I call it a rape on Serbia.
Are we now faced with WW4?

Pole, London, UK/ POland

"The US today demanded to know why Serbian police had failed to stop hundreds of "thugs" from breaking into its embassy in Belgrade and setting it on fire in a series of riotous attacks last night, leaving one dead. "

You mean they genuinly don't know?

Jez W, Leeds,

Serbia just lost 15% of its territory, the fate of ca. 250.000 Serb and other refugees still remains unclear, the remaining non-Albanian population of Kosovo has to be protected by 17.000 soldiers (NINE years after the Serb military left the province), the systematic destruction of Serbian Orthodox churches and monasteries went almost unnoticed or completely ignored by major Western media houses... yet the Americans are 'furious' about the burning of their embassy. Yes, I think this is what we should focus on. Let's talk more about how "violence is totally unacceptable" (Solana) and cry over the attacks on embassies. Somehow I suspect I would not find many harsh words from Javier condemning the violence committed by Albanians during their nine years reign of terror in Kosovo and Metohija…

Seriously, what does it take to reconnect people with reality? How long will this bias and injustice go on for?!

Francesca J. , Birmingham, UK

"The US today demanded to know why Serbian police had failed to stop hundreds of "thugs" from breaking into its embassy in Belgrade and setting it on fire in a series of riotous attacks last night, leaving one dead."

Hmmm, maybe something to do with the fact that the US, along with the EU, have just carved up a part of Serbia and given it away?

Let the UN declare California as being annexed to Mexico, or Marseille an autonomous enclave governed by Morocco. then you might just understand the anger.

Garley, London, England

I am travelling to Novi Sad in July for the world renound "Exit Music Festival" - is there voilence in other cities ..? the media only appear to be concentrating on Belgrade..?

Chris, Newcastle, England

Serbian violence and ultra-fascism has been/is at causal factor at the centre of all the Balkan bloodshed of the past 20 years. It's no wonder people want to secede from Serbia.
Even their own Serbian governments have lied to the Serbian people to try to tell them their forces has no part in genocidal massacres, snipings & concentration-camps, when there are a myriad facts to prove this.

geronimo, London,

The US and Europeans flout international law in inciting and supporting the breakup of a sovereign state and then start bleating about international law when their embassies get attacked. If your that keen on international law then you should have thought about that in the first place. No sympathy for the US or Europeans at all.

Tom, Glasgow,