Pristina, 28 January, 1999 (RFE/RL) - Fresh fighting has been reported along Kosovo's border with Albania today, even as NATO leaders took steps toward issuing a new threat for both sides to halt the conflict.
The clash reportedly started in the morning and was continuing this afternoon. There are conflicting reports on the cause of the fighting and casualties, none of which could be immediately confirmed. International monitors are investigating. NATO Secretary-General Javier Solana said he expects the alliance to issue a "political ultimatum" to the warring parties after tomorrow's Contact Group meeting in London. Italian Foreign Minister Lamberto Dini, speaking in Paris, said the world will not allow the conflict to continue.
Earlier today, in Brussels, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan urged peaceful negotiations but said the "use of force" may be necessary "when all other means failed." Annan also called for "full and unconditional respect for human rights" in Kosovo and for the authority of the UN War Crimes Tribunal throughout all of the former Yugoslavia.
Earlier today, in Brussels, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan urged peaceful negotiations but said the "use of force" may be necessary "when all other means failed." Annan also called for "full and unconditional respect for human rights" in Kosovo and for the authority of the UN War Crimes Tribunal throughout all of the former Yugoslavia.