TIRANA, February 10 – The Hague requested 180 years in prison for former KLA leaders. Kosova Prime Minister Albin Kurti reacted immediately. He stressed that the KLA fought a just liberation war. The prosecution’s request could misrepresent the historical truth, he warned.

The KLA led its struggle under harsh occupation. Civilians endured systematic violence from Serbian forces. Kurti noted that the group never planned to harm any other population. Courts must evaluate individual actions within the broader historical and political context, he added.

Kosova’s survival and dignity formed the moral essence of the liberation war. International observers supported the KLA’s resistance. Kurti highlighted that Serbian crimes approached state genocide. He said attempts to separate actions from context could distort the meaning of the struggle.

The prosecution requested 45 years for each accused leader. Kosova’s institutions will defend historical and factual truth. The government will protect the value and dignity of the liberation fight. Kurti emphasized that authorities will challenge any attempt to rewrite history.

Chief Prosecutor Kimberly West presented the sentencing request during the closing phase of the trial at the Special Court in The Hague. She asked for 45 years in prison for each former KLA leader, totaling 180 years. Public opinion closely follows the proceedings.

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