Politics

The Central Election Commission (CEC) in Kosovo has decided not to certify the Serbian List, the largest Serb party in Kosovo, for participation in the February 9 parliamentary elections. This decision was made after the assessment of the Office for the Registration of Political Parties, which examines whether a political entity meets the legal criteria for participation in elections. The main justification for the refusal is related to the Serbian List’s connections with key figures in the Serbian government, including President Aleksandar Vučić and other individuals such as Milan Radoićić. CEC member Sami Kurteshi stated that “Representatives of this List maintain constant contact, they are seen in photographs and on television with Vučić’s government, but where Radoićić is also seen,” arguing that this is a sufficient reason not to certify the party.

The leader of the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK), Lumir Abdixhiku, presented in Pristina the party’s program for Sports, Culture and Tourism, an ambitious initiative that aims to transform these sectors within four years. This program, part of the “New Road” initiative approved by the LDK Assembly in November 2023, includes major projects such as the construction of the National Sports Center in Bërnica, Pristina, with an investment of 100 million euros, regional stadiums according to UEFA standards, as well as new centers for hand sports and swimming. In the field of culture, the plan foresees the construction of the “Dr. Ibrahim Rugova” Opera and Ballet Theater, the New National Theater, the Contemporary Museum and the Museum of Peace and Resistance, transforming Kosovo’s cultural infrastructure. In the tourism sector, the program includes investments of 80 million euros for the development of a modern resort in Brezovica and 50 million euros for a resort in Peja. This plan aims not only to develop the tourism infrastructure, but also to establish Kosovo as an attractive destination in the region. During the presentation, Abdixhiku emphasized the importance of great ambitions for building a brighter future for the country, declaring: “I believe in the Republic of Kosovo! Change is possible!” This program reflects the LDK’s commitment to economic and social transformation, bringing hope and a new vision for Kosovo.

Kaja Kallas, after meeting with Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti, stressed that the path to membership in the European Union passes through the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, based on the Ohrid Agreement. She added that she welcomes the readiness for full cooperation after the recent terrorist attack and stressed that: “The perpetrators of this act must face justice.” Image: @kajakallas X

Donald Trump has announced plans to impose new tariffs targeting Mexico, Canada and China, rewriting the terms of the US’s international trade relations. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump announced tariffs of 25% on all goods imported from Mexico and Canada, and 10% on Chinese products. He argued that these measures are necessary to protect the US economy from unfair trade practices and the negative impacts of illegal immigration and the fentanyl crisis. The statements have been seen as a clear signal to global allies and adversaries that he is serious about restructuring the global trading system. The tariffs on Mexico and Canada come with Trump’s accusations that these countries are helping to worsen the US immigration and drug crises. The immediate effects of these statements were felt in financial markets, with the Mexican peso falling 1.4% against the US dollar, while the Canadian dollar lost 1% in Asian markets. Meanwhile, the 10% tariffs on China have been justified by Trump as a measure to punish China for its failure to stop exports of chemicals that contribute to the production of fentanyl. The Chinese yuan fell 0.3% in offshore markets following the news.

These are the names that President-elect Donald Trump has selected for key Cabinet positions as he prepares for a second presidential term. Secretary of Defense: Pete Hegseth: A Fox News journalist and military veteran, he has been named Secretary of Defense. Hegseth has been a prominent figure in conservative circles because of his military experience and his presence in the media. Attorney General: Pam Bondi, the former Attorney General of Florida, has been nominated for the post of Attorney General. She is known for her experience in law enforcement and support for Trump's policies. Secretary of Health and Human Services: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. An environmental advocate and activist known for his skeptical stance on vaccines, has been nominated to lead the Department of Health and Human Services Secretary of Homeland Security: Kristi Noem, the governor of South Dakota, has been chosen for the role, bringing her experience in crisis management and border security. Director of National Intelligence: Tulsi Gabbard, a former congresswoman known for her non-interventionist stance, has been nominated for the post. EPA Administrator: Lee Zeldin, a former congresswoman with a background in energy policy, will lead the Environmental Protection Agency. Ambassador to the United Nations: Elise Stefanik, a congresswoman and foreign affairs expert, has been chosen for the post. White House Chief of Staff: Susie Wiles, a longtime Trump adviser, will lead the White House Staff. Secretary of State: Mike Pompeo returns to manage U.S. Foreign policy. Treasury Secretary: Steven Mnuchin continues in this role to oversee fiscal and economic policy. Education Secretary: Betsy DeVos continues to lead efforts to reform education. Energy Secretary: Rick Perry will continue to lead U.S. Energy policy. Director of the Office of Management and Budget: Mick Mulvaney has been nominated to oversee the federal budget. National Security Advisor: John Bolton returns to lead national security policy.