The European Union’s announcement on the full removal of punitive measures against Kosovo has drawn a positive reaction from the caretaker government.

First, the government welcomed the release of EU funds. According to officials, the financial support from the start of the year is a correct decision, even if it came late. At the same time, they expect further progress this year in Kosovo’s European integration. In particular, they hope to move closer to EU candidate status.

Meanwhile, the European Union confirmed on Thursday that it has begun lifting the measures against Kosovo. As a result, more than €400 million will be released as financial support at the beginning of the year.

Previously, the EU imposed punitive measures on Kosovo in 2023. At that time, tensions rose in northern Kosovo, a Serb-majority area. The measures followed the appointment of Albanian mayors in four northern municipalities.

According to Klisman Kadiu, adviser to Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Besnik Bislimi, the release of funds is a positive step. However, he stressed that the EU must take additional actions to support Kosovo’s integration.

In addition, European Commission spokesperson Anitta Hipper said that €216 million was released in December 2025. Furthermore, the Commission plans to release another €205 million very soon.

She explained that the decision followed a calm and orderly transfer of local governance in northern Kosovo after recent local elections. She also outlined the projects that will benefit from the funds.

On the other hand, researcher Arbëreshë Loxha from the Group for Legal and Political Studies said the lifting of measures improves Kosovo’s international image. She added that once new institutions are formed, authorities must address any damage caused by the sanctions.

Finally, the European Commission confirmed that it expects the full removal of measures in the coming weeks. EU Enlargement Director Jan Gert Koopman said the funding exceeds €400 million. At the same time, institutions are working on project planning and contract implementation.

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