Politics
Saturday, July 18, 2026
Politics · Analysis · Developments
Today marks the 19th anniversary of the death of the historic President of Kosovo, Ibrahim Rugova, an emblematic figure of peace and independence.
Today marks the 19th anniversary of the passing of President Ibrahim Rugova, Kosovo’s historic leader and symbol of the peaceful struggle for independence. Rugova passed away on 21 January 2006, leaving behind a rich political and moral legacy for the people of Kosovo. As the first elected president and leader of the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK), he played a key role in the international affirmation of the Kosovo issue and the building of democratic institutions. Through his philosophy of peaceful resistance, Rugova won the support and respect of international allies during the most difficult periods in the country’s history. The anniversary of his death is commemorated today with numerous tributes throughout Kosovo, including tributes at his grave and commemorative activities by political leaders and citizens. The memory of President Ibrahim Rugova remains alive, as a symbol of the struggle for peace, democracy and lasting independence for Kosovo.
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Trump Arrives in Washington Ahead of Inauguration
Donald Trump has arrived in Washington, D.C., ahead of his inauguration, which is expected to take place on Monday, January 20, 2025. He was accompanied by his wife, Melania, and their youngest son, Barron. The family arrived at Dulles International Airport and then headed to the Sterling Golf Club in Virginia, where a reception was held for 500 guests, including members of his cabinet. Due to the very cold weather, with temperatures expected to drop to -15°C, the swearing-in ceremony will be held inside the Capitol, a decision similar to that of Ronald Reagan in 1985. The inauguration will begin at noon, where Trump and Vice President-elect J.D. Vance will be sworn in. Current President Joe Biden is expected to be in attendance, symbolizing a peaceful transition of power.
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Abdixhiku unveils plans for Pristina: "1.5 billion euros for the capital!"
At a conference held today in Pristina, the leader of the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK), Lumir Abdixhiku, unveiled plans, together with the Mayor of Pristina, Përparim Rama, to transform the capital with a total investment of 1.5 billion euros. In the presence of citizens, professionals in the field and the media, details of major projects aimed at improving infrastructure, education, culture, sports, technology, energy and health were presented. He pledged that Education will benefit from 200 million euros for the implementation of all-day learning, while 120 million euros will be invested in the National Sports Center in Bërnica. The Technology Park and the Artificial Intelligence Center will be financed with 45 million euros. The Outer Ring of the Capital will be supported with 360 million euros, while 100 million euros have been allocated for culture for the construction of theaters and museums. Termokos' capacities will be doubled with an investment of 120 million euros, while 500 million euros are planned for the construction of the New Kosovo Hospital and the Capital Hospital.
Politics
AAK- Nisma officially open the campaign at the 1 October hall in Pristina
The Alliance for the Future of Kosovo – Social Democratic Initiative – Conservatives – Intellectual Forum E30 coalition officially launched its election campaign today with a grand rally, filling the “1 Tetori” hall in Pristina. The event marked the opening of an organized campaign that aims to convey the messages and political program of this coalition to citizens throughout the country. During this enthusiastic rally, the candidates for deputies of the coalition, led by the Alliance for the Future of Kosovo (AAK), which is chaired by the candidate for prime minister, Ramush Haradinaj, are being introduced. In the speeches, the commitment to responsible governance, economic progress and international integration of Kosovo was emphasized.
Politics
PDK has officially launched its campaign in the "1 Tetori" hall
The Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) has officially launched its campaign in the 1st of October Hall by presenting its vision for a better Kosovo. At the organized rally, the party leader and PDK candidate for prime minister, Bedri Hamza, presented platforms for economic development, focusing on key topics such as wages and support for businesses. The campaign is expected to continue with meetings in other cities in Kosovo, where PDK leaders will discuss closely with citizens.
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06
LDK Officially Opens Campaign: Abdixhiku "A New Chapter for Kosovo"
The leader of the Democratic League of Kosovo, Lumir Abdixhiku, officially opened the election campaign, addressing thousands of people: “Tonight, we mark the beginning of a new chapter for Kosovo! Tonight, we mark a defining moment in the history of our people! Tonight, we mark the national right-wing uprising – as a monumental call of the people of Kosovo!” “I have seen the efforts of teachers, doctors, firefighters, public servants, I have seen the efforts of police officers, soldiers, the efforts of athletes and artists and everyone else in this society, which makes what we call Kosovo today. I have seen, above all, the struggle of those left behind and in need!” “All of these people have the state, but the state is not for them. On February 9, the state returns to them,” Abdixhiku said, among other things.
07
The election campaign for the parliamentary elections to be held on February 9th officially begins.
Political parties in Kosovo have launched their electoral activities with large rallies and messages addressed to citizens. The main parties have chosen different locations to officially open their campaigns. The Vetëvendosje Movement has launched its campaign from Gjakova, while the Democratic League of Kosovo has held its rally in Pristina. The Democratic Party of Kosovo has chosen the “1 Tetori” hall in the capital, while the AAK-Nisma coalition has launched its activities with tributes in Prekaz. Through rallies, speeches and meetings with citizens, the parties aim to mobilize supporters for an electoral race that is expected to be very dynamic and competitive.
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Trump: "We Need Greenland for National Security Purposes"
President-elect Donald Trump has revived his interest in buying Greenland, highlighting the island’s strategic importance with the statement “We Need Greenland for National Security Purposes.” Greenland is strategically located in the Arctic, making it a key point for global trade routes and military operations. The island is home to the U.S. Base Pituffik (formerly Thule Air Base), which is vital for missile defense and early warning systems. European leaders have reacted to Trump’s statements. On the other hand, Greenland’s Prime Minister, Múte Egede, has reiterated that the island is not for sale and is seeking to strengthen its independence from Denmark.
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Grenell for Nacionale: The US had excellent relations with Rugova, Thaçi and Hoti for 35 years, only with Kurti are relations in crisis
Nacionale reports that Richard Grenell, the Trump administration’s Special Envoy for Special Operations, has exclusively stated to Nacionale that for the first time in 35 years, relations between Kosovo and the US are in crisis and politicized. “Ibrahim Rugova, Hashim Thaçi and Avdullah Hoti, all of whom had excellent relations with Republicans and Democrats in America. The only time in 35 years when Kosovo-US relations (and Kosovo-EU relations) became partisan and in crisis, is with Albin Kurti as prime minister,” Grenell told Nacionale.
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The United States Congress officially certified Donald Trump's victory
On January 6, 2025, the United States Congress officially certified Donald Trump's victory in the 2024 presidential election. The certification process went smoothly, compared to the events of January 6, 2021. The session was chaired by Vice President Kamala Harris, who was the Democratic presidential candidate and was defeated by Trump. She emphasized the durability of American democracy and the importance of a peaceful transfer of power. The certification confirms that Donald Trump will take office on January 20, 2025, marking his second, non-consecutive, term as President of the United States.