The trial of former Kosova Liberation Army leaders, Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi, and Jakup Krasniqi, is entering a crucial phase. Defense teams must submit a joint motion to challenge parts of the indictment by June 12, 2025.

This motion could dispute the continuation of the case or raise other procedural objections. Meanwhile, the Specialist Prosecutor’s Office must respond by July 7, a deadline brought forward by the judges from the original July 14.

Lawyer Ardian Bajraktari believes a full dismissal of the charges would be a fair and realistic outcome. He argues the trial has lasted too long and has included, in his words, “many violations.”

However, he expects greater clarity after July 14, once the court receives the prosecution’s response and issues its ruling. According to him, that decision will determine the direction of the proceedings.

Looking ahead, Bajraktari hopes the trial in the first instance will conclude within this year, or by next year at the latest.

These upcoming deadlines mark a turning point. The court will decide whether to uphold, adjust, or dismiss the charges.

Thaçi, Veseli, Selimi, and Krasniqi have been held in The Hague for five years.

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