Politics
Saturday, July 18, 2026
Politics · Analysis · Developments
LDK Opens Door to Dialogue: Abdixhiku Confirms Meeting with Kurti
The leader of the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK), Lumir Abdixhiku, has confirmed that he will respond positively to the invitation of the acting prime minister and leader of the Vetëvendosje Movement, Albin Kurti, for a meeting as part of the consultations for the formation of the country's new institutions.
The statement was made after the meeting of the LDK Presidency, the first since the certification of the election results by the Central Election Commission.
Abdixhiku said he had accepted an official invitation for a "1+1" format meeting, while explaining that the date will be set by the teams of the two parties.
"We will respond positively to this invitation. This will be the first meeting and then we will hold meetings with the leaders of other parliamentary parties to understand their positions and attitudes," he declared.
According to Abdixhiku, this is the first official communication between LDK and Vetëvendosje after the elections.
In his statement, he made it known that the LDK Presidency has appreciated the commitment of the party's structures, candidates, and the result achieved in the elections, thanking all activists for their work during the campaign.
Abdixhiku reiterated that LDK remains ready to contribute to the formation of new institutions, but only on the basis of its political principles.
"We want an inclusive process of building institutions, with a balance between powers and respect for the principles we represent," he said.
Asked about the internal developments in LDK and the demands for holding an Extraordinary Congress, Abdixhiku said that the statutory procedures are clear and that, if a third of the delegates submit a request, the congress will be called immediately.
He emphasized that he does not intend to stay at the head of the party at all costs.
"We do not stay by force. The will of the membership is what decides. Our mission is to make LDK stronger than we found it," he declared.
Regarding the analysis of the electoral result, Abdixhiku said that the process has started and will be detailed, while the conclusions will be published by the party's secretariat.
In questions related to the election of the president, he did not give concrete names, but warned that first, meetings with the political parties must be held and then the LDK's organs will make the relevant decisions.
Finally, Abdixhiku emphasized that Kosovo should not face new elections again.
"It makes no sense for the country to go back to elections after just a few months. We will enter into talks with good will, but while protecting our principles and the interest of the Republic of Kosovo," he concluded.
The statement was made after the meeting of the LDK Presidency, the first since the certification of the election results by the Central Election Commission.
Abdixhiku said he had accepted an official invitation for a "1+1" format meeting, while explaining that the date will be set by the teams of the two parties.
"We will respond positively to this invitation. This will be the first meeting and then we will hold meetings with the leaders of other parliamentary parties to understand their positions and attitudes," he declared.
According to Abdixhiku, this is the first official communication between LDK and Vetëvendosje after the elections.
In his statement, he made it known that the LDK Presidency has appreciated the commitment of the party's structures, candidates, and the result achieved in the elections, thanking all activists for their work during the campaign.
Abdixhiku reiterated that LDK remains ready to contribute to the formation of new institutions, but only on the basis of its political principles.
"We want an inclusive process of building institutions, with a balance between powers and respect for the principles we represent," he said.
Asked about the internal developments in LDK and the demands for holding an Extraordinary Congress, Abdixhiku said that the statutory procedures are clear and that, if a third of the delegates submit a request, the congress will be called immediately.
He emphasized that he does not intend to stay at the head of the party at all costs.
"We do not stay by force. The will of the membership is what decides. Our mission is to make LDK stronger than we found it," he declared.
Regarding the analysis of the electoral result, Abdixhiku said that the process has started and will be detailed, while the conclusions will be published by the party's secretariat.
In questions related to the election of the president, he did not give concrete names, but warned that first, meetings with the political parties must be held and then the LDK's organs will make the relevant decisions.
Finally, Abdixhiku emphasized that Kosovo should not face new elections again.
"It makes no sense for the country to go back to elections after just a few months. We will enter into talks with good will, but while protecting our principles and the interest of the Republic of Kosovo," he concluded.
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Who secured seats in the Kosovo Assembly?
After the completion of the vote count, the list of candidates who have secured a parliamentary seat and are expected to represent citizens in the Kosovo Assembly from the four largest political entities has been made known:
The Vetëvendosje Movement, as the winning party of the elections, will be represented by Albin Kurti, Glauk Konjufca, Albulena Haxhiu, Hekuran Murati, Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz, Xhelal Sveçla, Ejup Maqedonci, Avni Dehari, Hajrulla Çeku, Mimoza Kusari-Lila, Shqipe Mehmeti Selimi, Andin Hoti, Arben Vitia, Ilir Kërçeli, Saranda Bogujevci, Osman Musliu, Nezir Kraki, Alban Bajrami, Arton Konushevci, Edona Llalloshi, Mefail Bajqinovci, Ardian Gola, Armend Baloku, Armend Muja, Arbëreshë Kryeziu-Hyseni, Arbër Rexhaj, Rufki Suma, Fitore Pacolli-Dalipi, Blerim Gashi, Artane Rizvanolli-Berisha, Adriana Matoshi, Agim Bahtiri, Arjeta Fejza, Taulant Kelmendi, Arbërie Nagavci, Krenare Çerkini, Dimal Basha, Liza Gashi, Labinotë Demi-Murtezi, Artan Abrashi, Adnan Rrustemi, Adelina Grainca, Valon Ramadani, Salih Zyba, Enver Haliti, Fatmire Kollçaku, Valon Hoti, Valon Peci, Drita Pajaziti, Jeton Raka, Sylejman Meholli, Vigan Qorrolli, and Fjolla Ujkani.
From the Democratic Party of Kosovo, the following have been confirmed: Bedri Hamza, Përparim Gruda, Arian Tahiri, Uran Ismaili, Vlora Çitaku, Sala Jashari, Ganimete Musliu, Enver Hoxhaj, Arben Mustafa, Rrahman Rama, Mërgim Lushtaku, Elmi Reçica, Besa Kabashi-Ramaj, Jakup Nura, Eman Rrahmani, Altin Krasniqi, Artan Behrami, Fadil Demaku, Blerta Deliu-Kodra, Rrustem Mustafa, Eliza Hoxha, and Ariana Musliu-Shoshi.
The Democratic League of Kosovo will be represented in the new legislature by Vjosa Osmani, Lumir Abdixhiku, Doarsa Kica-Xhelili, Hykmete Bajrami, Avdullah Hoti, Ukë Rugova, Kujtim Shala, Anton Quni, Lutfi Haziri, Armend Zemaj, Besian Mustafa, Janina Ymeri, Ermal Sadiku, Jehona Lushaku-Sadriu, Arben Gashi, Albena Reshitaj, Fadil Hadergjonaj, and Paris Guri.
Meanwhile, the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo has secured seats for Ardian Gjini, Ramush Haradinaj, Daut Haradinaj, Besnik Tahiri, Time Kadrijaj, Albana Bytyqi, and Teuta Haxhiu.
The names presented are based on the current results of the vote count. However, the final composition of the new legislature will be confirmed after the certification of the results by the Central Election Commission and the completion of any possible appeal procedures.
The Vetëvendosje Movement, as the winning party of the elections, will be represented by Albin Kurti, Glauk Konjufca, Albulena Haxhiu, Hekuran Murati, Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz, Xhelal Sveçla, Ejup Maqedonci, Avni Dehari, Hajrulla Çeku, Mimoza Kusari-Lila, Shqipe Mehmeti Selimi, Andin Hoti, Arben Vitia, Ilir Kërçeli, Saranda Bogujevci, Osman Musliu, Nezir Kraki, Alban Bajrami, Arton Konushevci, Edona Llalloshi, Mefail Bajqinovci, Ardian Gola, Armend Baloku, Armend Muja, Arbëreshë Kryeziu-Hyseni, Arbër Rexhaj, Rufki Suma, Fitore Pacolli-Dalipi, Blerim Gashi, Artane Rizvanolli-Berisha, Adriana Matoshi, Agim Bahtiri, Arjeta Fejza, Taulant Kelmendi, Arbërie Nagavci, Krenare Çerkini, Dimal Basha, Liza Gashi, Labinotë Demi-Murtezi, Artan Abrashi, Adnan Rrustemi, Adelina Grainca, Valon Ramadani, Salih Zyba, Enver Haliti, Fatmire Kollçaku, Valon Hoti, Valon Peci, Drita Pajaziti, Jeton Raka, Sylejman Meholli, Vigan Qorrolli, and Fjolla Ujkani.
From the Democratic Party of Kosovo, the following have been confirmed: Bedri Hamza, Përparim Gruda, Arian Tahiri, Uran Ismaili, Vlora Çitaku, Sala Jashari, Ganimete Musliu, Enver Hoxhaj, Arben Mustafa, Rrahman Rama, Mërgim Lushtaku, Elmi Reçica, Besa Kabashi-Ramaj, Jakup Nura, Eman Rrahmani, Altin Krasniqi, Artan Behrami, Fadil Demaku, Blerta Deliu-Kodra, Rrustem Mustafa, Eliza Hoxha, and Ariana Musliu-Shoshi.
The Democratic League of Kosovo will be represented in the new legislature by Vjosa Osmani, Lumir Abdixhiku, Doarsa Kica-Xhelili, Hykmete Bajrami, Avdullah Hoti, Ukë Rugova, Kujtim Shala, Anton Quni, Lutfi Haziri, Armend Zemaj, Besian Mustafa, Janina Ymeri, Ermal Sadiku, Jehona Lushaku-Sadriu, Arben Gashi, Albena Reshitaj, Fadil Hadergjonaj, and Paris Guri.
Meanwhile, the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo has secured seats for Ardian Gjini, Ramush Haradinaj, Daut Haradinaj, Besnik Tahiri, Time Kadrijaj, Albana Bytyqi, and Teuta Haxhiu.
The names presented are based on the current results of the vote count. However, the final composition of the new legislature will be confirmed after the certification of the results by the Central Election Commission and the completion of any possible appeal procedures.
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Politics
Trump Announces Agreement Between the United States and Iran
The United States and Iran have reached an agreement aimed at ending months of hostilities, according to statements from U.S. President Donald Trump and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has been mediating talks between the two sides, The Washington Post reported.
Trump said on Sunday that the agreement with Iran had been finalized, describing it as a significant step toward stabilizing the region. According to him, the deal includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the end of the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports.
Meanwhile, Sharif announced that both parties had agreed to an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon. He added that an official signing ceremony is expected to take place in Switzerland on Friday, while additional mediation meetings are scheduled throughout the week.
If formalized as planned, the agreement would represent the most significant accord between the United States and Iran since the start of the four-month conflict, which has had a substantial impact on global energy markets and regional security.
Trump Announces Agreement Between the United States and Iran
Trump Announces Agreement Between the United States and Iran
The United States and Iran have reached an agreement aimed at ending months of hostilities, according to statements from U.S. President Donald Trump and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has been mediating talks between the two sides, The Washington Post reported.
Trump said on Sunday that the agreement with Iran had been finalized, describing it as a significant step toward stabilizing the region. According to him, the deal includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the end of the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports.
Meanwhile, Sharif announced that both parties had agreed to an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon. He added that an official signing ceremony is expected to take place in Switzerland on Friday, while additional mediation meetings are scheduled throughout the week.
If formalized as planned, the agreement would represent the most significant accord between the United States and Iran since the start of the four-month conflict, which has had a substantial impact on global energy markets and regional security.
Politics
LVV Leads with 42.91%, but the Race for Second Place Remains Open
LVV Leads with 42.91%, but the Race for Second Place Remains Open
With all 2,498 polling stations processed, Kosovo’s preliminary parliamentary election results show that the Self-Determination Movement (LVV) remains the largest political force in the country, although with a significantly lower result compared to the parliamentary elections of December 2025.
According to the latest data, LVV has secured 299,152 votes, or 42.91 percent of the vote, remaining the leading party but recording the largest decline compared to the December 28, 2025 elections, when it received 49.34 percent. The Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) ranks second with 147,325 votes, or 21.13 percent, remaining largely unchanged from its 20.98 percent result in 2025.
The Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK) has posted the strongest growth, rising to 17.59 percent from 13.57 percent, while the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo (AAK) has increased from 5.66 percent to 7.16 percent. Meanwhile, the Serb List has secured 43,071 votes, representing 6.18 percent of the votes counted so far.
Based solely on the votes counted within Kosovo, the current composition of the Assembly would be projected approximately as follows: • LVV: 43–45 seats • PDK: 21–22 seats • LDK: 18–19 seats • AAK: 7–8 seats
However, the final outcome remains open due to diaspora votes, which have historically favored LVV more strongly than voters inside Kosovo. In previous elections, support for LVV among the diaspora has been estimated at over 60 percent.
In a scenario where President Vjosa Osmani exerts a strong influence on diaspora voting patterns, LDK could secure as much as 36 percent of the diaspora vote, while LVV’s share could decline to around 44 percent.
Under such a scenario, the final nationwide result could approach: • LVV: 47–48% • PDK: around 22% • LDK: 22–23% • AAK: 7–8%
The corresponding seat distribution could be: • LVV: 48 seats • PDK: 21–22 seats • LDK: 22 seats • AAK: 8 seats
Such a result would significantly narrow the gap between PDK and LDK and could create a very close contest for the position of the second-largest party in the Assembly.
The election appears to be telling two parallel stories. On one hand, LVV has experienced a decline compared to its 2025 result. On the other hand, LDK has recorded the strongest growth among the major Albanian parties and could further strengthen its position if diaspora votes prove more favorable than in previous electoral cycles.
The final composition of the Kosovo Assembly will depend on the official counting of diaspora votes, conditional ballots, and the final allocation of mandates. While LVV is expected to remain the largest parliamentary group, the race for second place and the broader political balance remain very much open.
With all 2,498 polling stations processed, Kosovo’s preliminary parliamentary election results show that the Self-Determination Movement (LVV) remains the largest political force in the country, although with a significantly lower result compared to the parliamentary elections of December 2025.
According to the latest data, LVV has secured 299,152 votes, or 42.91 percent of the vote, remaining the leading party but recording the largest decline compared to the December 28, 2025 elections, when it received 49.34 percent. The Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) ranks second with 147,325 votes, or 21.13 percent, remaining largely unchanged from its 20.98 percent result in 2025.
The Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK) has posted the strongest growth, rising to 17.59 percent from 13.57 percent, while the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo (AAK) has increased from 5.66 percent to 7.16 percent. Meanwhile, the Serb List has secured 43,071 votes, representing 6.18 percent of the votes counted so far.
Based solely on the votes counted within Kosovo, the current composition of the Assembly would be projected approximately as follows: • LVV: 43–45 seats • PDK: 21–22 seats • LDK: 18–19 seats • AAK: 7–8 seats
However, the final outcome remains open due to diaspora votes, which have historically favored LVV more strongly than voters inside Kosovo. In previous elections, support for LVV among the diaspora has been estimated at over 60 percent.
In a scenario where President Vjosa Osmani exerts a strong influence on diaspora voting patterns, LDK could secure as much as 36 percent of the diaspora vote, while LVV’s share could decline to around 44 percent.
Under such a scenario, the final nationwide result could approach: • LVV: 47–48% • PDK: around 22% • LDK: 22–23% • AAK: 7–8%
The corresponding seat distribution could be: • LVV: 48 seats • PDK: 21–22 seats • LDK: 22 seats • AAK: 8 seats
Such a result would significantly narrow the gap between PDK and LDK and could create a very close contest for the position of the second-largest party in the Assembly.
The election appears to be telling two parallel stories. On one hand, LVV has experienced a decline compared to its 2025 result. On the other hand, LDK has recorded the strongest growth among the major Albanian parties and could further strengthen its position if diaspora votes prove more favorable than in previous electoral cycles.
The final composition of the Kosovo Assembly will depend on the official counting of diaspora votes, conditional ballots, and the final allocation of mandates. While LVV is expected to remain the largest parliamentary group, the race for second place and the broader political balance remain very much open.
Politics
The Alliance Officially Confirms Political Transition at the Top of the Party
The Alliance Officially Confirms Political Transition at the Top of the Party
After more than two decades under the leadership of Ramush Haradinaj, Ardian Gjini has officially been confirmed as the head of the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo (AAK) during the party’s Tenth Electoral Assembly, marking one of the most significant political transitions in the party’s history.
The transfer of leadership from Haradinaj to Gjini is being viewed as a key moment for the Alliance, a political party that for years had been closely associated with the figure of the former Kosovo Liberation Army commander and former Prime Minister of Kosovo. Haradinaj led AAK since its founding in 2000, transforming it into one of the influential political forces in Kosovo’s state-building process.
The Alliance for the Future of Kosovo was consolidated as a political alliance that brought together parties, initiatives, and movements emerging from the war, aiming to create a new political force rooted in the legacy of Kosovo’s resistance and liberation struggle.
In its early years, AAK functioned as a more decentralized political alliance, where regional branches and local political figures played an important role in strengthening the party. This organizational model helped the Alliance build its strongest political base in the Dukagjini region before later expanding across other parts of Kosovo.
Under the leadership of Ramush Haradinaj, who also served as Prime Minister of Kosovo, the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo participated in several governments, producing ministers, members of parliament, mayors, and leaders of state institutions. The party built its political identity around issues of national security, relations with Western allies, state-building, and support for former fighters.
The official confirmation of Ardian Gjini as head of the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo was presented as the beginning of a new political and electoral phase for the party. During speeches delivered at the assembly, party officials emphasized continuity in the Alliance’s political course and the preservation of the political identity it has built over the years.
Ardian Gjini is considered one of the oldest and most established figures within the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo, with a long-standing role in Kosovo’s political and institutional life. Over the years, he has held several public positions, including minister, member of parliament, and mayor of Gjakova, while also serving as one of Ramush Haradinaj’s closest political associates within the party structures.
After more than two decades under the leadership of Ramush Haradinaj, Ardian Gjini has officially been confirmed as the head of the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo (AAK) during the party’s Tenth Electoral Assembly, marking one of the most significant political transitions in the party’s history.
The transfer of leadership from Haradinaj to Gjini is being viewed as a key moment for the Alliance, a political party that for years had been closely associated with the figure of the former Kosovo Liberation Army commander and former Prime Minister of Kosovo. Haradinaj led AAK since its founding in 2000, transforming it into one of the influential political forces in Kosovo’s state-building process.
The Alliance for the Future of Kosovo was consolidated as a political alliance that brought together parties, initiatives, and movements emerging from the war, aiming to create a new political force rooted in the legacy of Kosovo’s resistance and liberation struggle.
In its early years, AAK functioned as a more decentralized political alliance, where regional branches and local political figures played an important role in strengthening the party. This organizational model helped the Alliance build its strongest political base in the Dukagjini region before later expanding across other parts of Kosovo.
Under the leadership of Ramush Haradinaj, who also served as Prime Minister of Kosovo, the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo participated in several governments, producing ministers, members of parliament, mayors, and leaders of state institutions. The party built its political identity around issues of national security, relations with Western allies, state-building, and support for former fighters.
The official confirmation of Ardian Gjini as head of the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo was presented as the beginning of a new political and electoral phase for the party. During speeches delivered at the assembly, party officials emphasized continuity in the Alliance’s political course and the preservation of the political identity it has built over the years.
Ardian Gjini is considered one of the oldest and most established figures within the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo, with a long-standing role in Kosovo’s political and institutional life. Over the years, he has held several public positions, including minister, member of parliament, and mayor of Gjakova, while also serving as one of Ramush Haradinaj’s closest political associates within the party structures.
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06
Kosovo Parliament Dissolved After Deadline to Elect President Expires
Kosovo’s parliament has been dissolved after lawmakers failed to elect a new president within the timeframe required by the constitution, triggering the country’s move toward early parliamentary elections.
The Assembly was unable to move forward with the presidential election after attempts to hold the vote failed, leaving parliament unable to complete the procedure before the deadline linked to the end of President Vjosa Osmani’s mandate in April.
A lack of consensus between the ruling party and the opposition contributed to the stalemate. The ruling Vetëvendosje movement, led by Prime Minister Albin Kurti, had proposed Foreign Minister Glauk Konjufca as a candidate for the presidency, but opposition parties refused to support the nomination and did not participate in the session.
Under constitutional rules, the president is elected by parliament through a multi-round voting procedure. A candidate must secure a two-thirds majority of votes in the first two rounds. If no candidate is elected, a third round can be held in which a simple majority is sufficient.
Without sufficient participation from lawmakers, the Assembly was unable to reach the quorum required to proceed with the presidential vote. The deadlock prevented the election process from advancing through the rounds required by Kosovo’s constitution.
The decision was announced by President Vjosa Osmani after the constitutional deadline for electing a president expired.
Following the dissolution, Kosovo must organize elections within approximately 45 days. The vote will determine the new composition of the Assembly and is expected to shape the country’s next governing majority.
The Assembly was unable to move forward with the presidential election after attempts to hold the vote failed, leaving parliament unable to complete the procedure before the deadline linked to the end of President Vjosa Osmani’s mandate in April.
A lack of consensus between the ruling party and the opposition contributed to the stalemate. The ruling Vetëvendosje movement, led by Prime Minister Albin Kurti, had proposed Foreign Minister Glauk Konjufca as a candidate for the presidency, but opposition parties refused to support the nomination and did not participate in the session.
Under constitutional rules, the president is elected by parliament through a multi-round voting procedure. A candidate must secure a two-thirds majority of votes in the first two rounds. If no candidate is elected, a third round can be held in which a simple majority is sufficient.
Without sufficient participation from lawmakers, the Assembly was unable to reach the quorum required to proceed with the presidential vote. The deadlock prevented the election process from advancing through the rounds required by Kosovo’s constitution.
The decision was announced by President Vjosa Osmani after the constitutional deadline for electing a president expired.
Following the dissolution, Kosovo must organize elections within approximately 45 days. The vote will determine the new composition of the Assembly and is expected to shape the country’s next governing majority.
07
Albania’s Prime Minister Edi Rama Calls for Trump’s Engagement in Thaçi Judicial Process
Albania’s Prime Minister has called for the engagement of Donald Trump regarding the judicial process against Hashim Thaçi, using a direct appeal urging action on this matter. He stated that the situation requires a response, emphasizing the importance that, in his view, this issue carries.
“At the time, the President of Kosovo was brutally prevented from traveling to the White House to sign that agreement in the presence of President Trump. And this was the work of the same ‘sicario’ prosecutor who had also gone after President Trump himself and became famous worldwide for it.”
“Today, the President of Kosovo has already spent six years in pre-trial detention before a Special Court in The Hague, sponsored by several democratic states, some of them present here, which should be ashamed of this kind of international justice. Just last week, Mr. President, another prosecutor funded by this great country and its taxpayers requested a 45-year prison sentence for him — a request that sent waves of humiliating shock throughout an entire nation seeking peace.”
“At this moment, only a few months separate a man who rose from resistance against ethnic cleansing to become a peacemaker from a potentially devastating outcome in a court that, so far, has failed at every step to uphold the standards of democratic justice. For God’s sake, Mr. President, let us do something before, as you say, very bad things happen again,”ends his remarks
“At the time, the President of Kosovo was brutally prevented from traveling to the White House to sign that agreement in the presence of President Trump. And this was the work of the same ‘sicario’ prosecutor who had also gone after President Trump himself and became famous worldwide for it.”
“Today, the President of Kosovo has already spent six years in pre-trial detention before a Special Court in The Hague, sponsored by several democratic states, some of them present here, which should be ashamed of this kind of international justice. Just last week, Mr. President, another prosecutor funded by this great country and its taxpayers requested a 45-year prison sentence for him — a request that sent waves of humiliating shock throughout an entire nation seeking peace.”
“At this moment, only a few months separate a man who rose from resistance against ethnic cleansing to become a peacemaker from a potentially devastating outcome in a court that, so far, has failed at every step to uphold the standards of democratic justice. For God’s sake, Mr. President, let us do something before, as you say, very bad things happen again,”ends his remarks
08
Kosovo Forms New Institutions
The elected members of the Assembly of Kosovo have taken the solemn oath at the constitutive session of the new legislature, officially assuming their parliamentary mandate and paving the way for the full functioning of the highest legislative institution in the country.
The session was chaired by the interim chair, in accordance with the procedures set out in the Rules of Procedure of the Assembly. After the verification of the mandates by the relevant committee, the members stood up and read the text of the oath, pledging to respect the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Kosovo. The session was attended by representatives from all political parties that have secured seats in the Assembly, as well as MPs from non-majority communities, who with this act officially began exercising their four-year term as representatives of the citizens.
Following the constitutive session, Albulena Haxhiu was elected Speaker of the Assembly of Kosovo, taking the lead of the legislature in a new institutional period for the country. Her election took place after the certification of the election results and the swearing-in of the MPs, where she secured the support of the parliamentary majority to assume the position of Speaker and lead the proceedings of the Assembly.The new Speaker pledged to exercise her duties in accordance with the Constitution and parliamentary regulations, emphasizing the importance of the democratic functioning of the institution. She thanked the MPs for their trust and expressed her readiness to cooperate with all parliamentary groups.
Meanwhile, the Parliament has also voted for the new Government, electing Albin Kurti as Prime Minister for the third time, after a one-year period of political deadlock that had paralyzed the institutions. This vote marks the start of the third governing mandate for Kurti and his cabinet, known as "Kurti 3".After the presentation of the exposition and debate on the government program, the cabinet was approved with 66 votes in favor, 49 against and no abstentions. The government consists of 19 ministers and three deputy prime ministers, while key figures include Glauk Konjufca as First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice.
The new four-year mandate comes after the extraordinary elections of 28 December 2025, in which the Vetëvendosje Movement secured 57 seats in the 120-member Assembly, managing to form a functional majority together with representatives of non-majority communities.
The formation of the government ends a long period of political uncertainty, during which institutions remained blocked due to the lack of a parliamentary majority. Kurti had been serving as acting prime minister for months while negotiations to form a new government were underway.
In his speech to MPs, Kurti highlighted the executive's priorities, including strengthening cooperation with Western allies, investing in defense, and advancing dialogue with Serbia. Among the main challenges the government is expected to face are approving the 2026 budget, securing international financial support, and managing ongoing regional tensions.
With the constitution of the Assembly, the election of the speaker, and the vote on the new government, Kosovo is entering a new institutional phase. The legislature and executive are expected to focus on economic development, the rule of law, and integration processes, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the country's political life.
The session was chaired by the interim chair, in accordance with the procedures set out in the Rules of Procedure of the Assembly. After the verification of the mandates by the relevant committee, the members stood up and read the text of the oath, pledging to respect the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Kosovo. The session was attended by representatives from all political parties that have secured seats in the Assembly, as well as MPs from non-majority communities, who with this act officially began exercising their four-year term as representatives of the citizens.
Following the constitutive session, Albulena Haxhiu was elected Speaker of the Assembly of Kosovo, taking the lead of the legislature in a new institutional period for the country. Her election took place after the certification of the election results and the swearing-in of the MPs, where she secured the support of the parliamentary majority to assume the position of Speaker and lead the proceedings of the Assembly.The new Speaker pledged to exercise her duties in accordance with the Constitution and parliamentary regulations, emphasizing the importance of the democratic functioning of the institution. She thanked the MPs for their trust and expressed her readiness to cooperate with all parliamentary groups.
Meanwhile, the Parliament has also voted for the new Government, electing Albin Kurti as Prime Minister for the third time, after a one-year period of political deadlock that had paralyzed the institutions. This vote marks the start of the third governing mandate for Kurti and his cabinet, known as "Kurti 3".After the presentation of the exposition and debate on the government program, the cabinet was approved with 66 votes in favor, 49 against and no abstentions. The government consists of 19 ministers and three deputy prime ministers, while key figures include Glauk Konjufca as First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Donika Gërvalla-Schwarz as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Justice.
The new four-year mandate comes after the extraordinary elections of 28 December 2025, in which the Vetëvendosje Movement secured 57 seats in the 120-member Assembly, managing to form a functional majority together with representatives of non-majority communities.
The formation of the government ends a long period of political uncertainty, during which institutions remained blocked due to the lack of a parliamentary majority. Kurti had been serving as acting prime minister for months while negotiations to form a new government were underway.
In his speech to MPs, Kurti highlighted the executive's priorities, including strengthening cooperation with Western allies, investing in defense, and advancing dialogue with Serbia. Among the main challenges the government is expected to face are approving the 2026 budget, securing international financial support, and managing ongoing regional tensions.
With the constitution of the Assembly, the election of the speaker, and the vote on the new government, Kosovo is entering a new institutional phase. The legislature and executive are expected to focus on economic development, the rule of law, and integration processes, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the country's political life.
09
Trump confirms capture of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela
In a press conference held in the early hours of Saturday morning, United States President Donald J. Trump confirmed that Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured by US forces during a coordinated overnight operation on Venezuelan territory.
According to President Trump, the operation was the result of close cooperation between US security agencies, describing it as “necessary to restore democratic order and the rule of law in Venezuela.”
Nicolás Maduro, who has described himself as a socialist and has led Venezuela since 2013, has been at the center of international accusations for years of serious human rights violations, electoral fraud and systemic corruption.
The US administration had previously accused him of stealing the elections that kept him in power.
In March 2020, US authorities filed indictments against Maduro, accusing him of overseeing a violent drug trafficking organization known as the "Cartel de los Soles", suspected of international cocaine trafficking and collaboration with armed criminal groups.
Following the intervention, President Trump announced the creation of a Venezuelan Transitional Authority, which will be tasked with institutionally stabilizing the country, restoring basic services, and preparing for a democratic transition.
According to President Trump, the operation was the result of close cooperation between US security agencies, describing it as “necessary to restore democratic order and the rule of law in Venezuela.”
Nicolás Maduro, who has described himself as a socialist and has led Venezuela since 2013, has been at the center of international accusations for years of serious human rights violations, electoral fraud and systemic corruption.
The US administration had previously accused him of stealing the elections that kept him in power.
In March 2020, US authorities filed indictments against Maduro, accusing him of overseeing a violent drug trafficking organization known as the "Cartel de los Soles", suspected of international cocaine trafficking and collaboration with armed criminal groups.
Following the intervention, President Trump announced the creation of a Venezuelan Transitional Authority, which will be tasked with institutionally stabilizing the country, restoring basic services, and preparing for a democratic transition.
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Preliminary election results
The vote counting process in the parliamentary elections in Kosovo is nearing completion, with 99.26% of the ballot boxes counted out of a total of 2,557 ballot boxes, 2,538 of which were counted.
According to preliminary data:• Vetëvendosje leads with 49.30% of the votes• PDK ranks second with 21.01%• LDK holds third place with 13.59%• AAK has won 5.68%• Srpska Lista has secured 4.74%• Nisma has received 1.72%• Others (smaller parties and initiatives) total 3.96%
The difference between the winning entity and the other parties is significant, placing Vetëvendosje in a dominant position for the formation of new institutions.
900,330 citizens, out of 1,999,204 registered voters, participated in the vote, which translates into a turnout of 45.03%. This indicates a moderate level of civic engagement, with over half of the electorate choosing not to vote.
The current results have not yet fully included envelope votes (from the diaspora) as well as conditional votes. These votes will be subject to additional verifications and will be counted in the final phase of the process.
However, given the large differences between political entities, envelope and conditional votes are not expected to change the overall ranking, but may affect small numbers or the final distribution of mandates.
After the completion of the counting of envelope and conditional votes, the official certification of the results is expected, to pave the way for the distribution of mandates in the Assembly and the formation of the new government.
According to preliminary data:• Vetëvendosje leads with 49.30% of the votes• PDK ranks second with 21.01%• LDK holds third place with 13.59%• AAK has won 5.68%• Srpska Lista has secured 4.74%• Nisma has received 1.72%• Others (smaller parties and initiatives) total 3.96%
The difference between the winning entity and the other parties is significant, placing Vetëvendosje in a dominant position for the formation of new institutions.
900,330 citizens, out of 1,999,204 registered voters, participated in the vote, which translates into a turnout of 45.03%. This indicates a moderate level of civic engagement, with over half of the electorate choosing not to vote.
The current results have not yet fully included envelope votes (from the diaspora) as well as conditional votes. These votes will be subject to additional verifications and will be counted in the final phase of the process.
However, given the large differences between political entities, envelope and conditional votes are not expected to change the overall ranking, but may affect small numbers or the final distribution of mandates.
After the completion of the counting of envelope and conditional votes, the official certification of the results is expected, to pave the way for the distribution of mandates in the Assembly and the formation of the new government.