Sun Dec 28 07:10:33 UTC 2025: ## Kosovo Holds Snap Election Amid Political Gridlock
Pristina, Kosovo – Kosovo is holding its second parliamentary election in less than a year as Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s Self-Determination Movement (LVV) party seeks a decisive majority to break a prolonged political stalemate. Polling stations opened at 7:00 AM local time (06:00 GMT) and will close at 7:00 PM (18:00 GMT) on Sunday, with results anticipated shortly thereafter.
The snap election was triggered after Kurti’s LVV, despite winning the most votes in February’s ballot, failed to form a stable governing coalition. This has led to a political crisis at a critical juncture for the Balkan nation. The newly elected parliament will be tasked with electing a president in April and ratifying crucial loan agreements totaling 1 billion euros ($1.2 billion) from the European Union and World Bank, which are set to expire soon.
Opposition parties have voiced strong objections to governing with Kurti, citing concerns over his handling of relations with Western allies and his approach to the ethnically divided north of Kosovo, where a significant Serb minority resides.
While enjoying international support, Kosovo, with a population of 1.6 million, grapples with persistent poverty, instability, and organized crime. Kurti’s previous term, which began in 2021, was the first in which a Pristina government completed a full term.
In an effort to win over voters, Kurti has pledged economic reforms, including an additional month of salary for public sector workers annually, substantial capital investments, and the creation of a specialized unit to combat organized crime. Opposition parties are also campaigning on promises to improve living standards.
With no published opinion polls, the outcome of the election remains uncertain. Many Kosovars express disillusionment with the political landscape. “There wouldn’t be great joy if Kurti wins, nor would there be if the opposition wins,” commented Edi Krasiqi, a local doctor. “This country needs drastic changes, and I don’t see that change coming.”
Kosovo, formerly a province of Serbia, declared its independence in 2008 following a NATO intervention in 1999. While recognized by over 100 countries, including many Western nations, Russia, Serbia, Greece, and Spain have not acknowledged its sovereignty. The country aspires to join the European Union, but normalization of relations with Serbia is a prerequisite for accession.
Tensions between Kosovo and Serbia have remained a challenge. Although the EU recently lifted sanctions imposed last year, these measures are estimated to have cost Kosovo hundreds of millions of euros. As one of the poorest countries in Europe, Kosovo faces an uphill battle towards economic stability and full integration into the European community.
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