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Kurti Elected Kosovo PM, Aims to Strengthen Alliances

2/12/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Albin Kurti, Kosovo Prime Minister, was elected on February 11, 2026, with 66 votes in a 120-seat parliament.
The vote ends a year-long deadlock in forming a government.
Kurti plans to strengthen Western alliances, invest one billion euros in defense, and resume dialogue with Serbia.
European Union (EU) High Representative Kaja Kallas urged reforms to unlock EU support.

History

Historical Context

Kosovo declared independence from Serbia on February 17, 2008, following a tumultuous history marked by the Kosovo War and UN administration. While 22 EU member states recognized its sovereignty, Serbia and several others did not. In 2026, Albin Kurti's election signaled a shift towards Western alignment and a commitment to invest one billion euros in defense, reflecting ongoing tensions with Serbia and the EU's role in regional stability.

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Story summary

Albin Kurti, Kosovo Prime Minister, was elected on February 11, 2026, with 66 votes in a 120-seat parliament.
The vote ends a year-long deadlock in forming a government.
Kurti plans to strengthen Western alliances, invest one billion euros in defense, and resume dialogue with Serbia.
European Union (EU) High Representative Kaja Kallas urged reforms to unlock EU support.

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