In a move that has ignited diplomatic tensions, Serbia has vowed to take “strong diplomatic and political measures” in response to Kenya’s quiet recognition of Kosovo as an independent state.
The recognition was confirmed on March 26, 2025, during a closed-door meeting at State House, Nairobi, attended by Kenyan President William Ruto and senior government officials.
The Proclamation, issued by President Ruto, asserts Kenya’s acknowledgment of Kosovo’s statehood, citing the right to self-determination, a defined territory, and a population governed by a political authority.
It also references the International Court of Justice’s 2010 advisory opinion, which concluded that Kosovo’s declaration of independence did not violate international law.
“We affirm that the recognition of Kosovo’s statehood is in line with international legal principles and in respect of the long-standing relationship between Kenya and Serbia,” President Ruto declared in a statement issued shortly after the meeting.
The move has drawn immediate backlash from Serbia, which has yet to formally recognize Kosovo’s independence since its unilateral declaration in 2008.
The Serbian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement condemning Kenya’s recognition, calling it a “breach of international norms and a serious blow to the bilateral relations between Serbia and Kenya.”
“We will take necessary diplomatic and political measures to address this situation,” the Serbian government said in a statement.
“This decision undermines the longstanding principles of territorial integrity and international law that we stand by.”
Kosovo, which declared independence from Serbia in 2008, has been recognized by more than half of the United Nations’ member states.
However, Serbia, backed by Russia and China, has continued to reject Kosovo’s independence, leading to a prolonged standoff in the Balkans.
In its proclamation, Kenya noted the positive shift in relations between Serbia and Kosovo and expressed hope for continued dialogue.
“We appreciate the normalization of relations between Serbia and Kosovo, which is a step towards peace and stability in the region,” President Ruto stated, further emphasizing Kenya’s commitment to the principles of friendly international relations and respect for territorial integrity.
