TIRANA, December 19 – The United States called for rapid implementation of the Ohrid Agreement between Kosova and Serbia, reached in February 2023 with European Union mediation. The 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, signed by President Donald Trump on 18 December, emphasized that Washington should support a final agreement based on mutual recognition. It rejected territorial exchanges or ethnic border changes.

The act stressed that Kosova and Serbia must implement previous agreements. It also required self-management for the Serbian community while respecting each other’s state symbols. In addition, it encouraged strategic dialogue, economic cooperation, and US initiatives to strengthen bilateral relations.

The legislation addressed the Western Balkans’ energy dependence on Russia. It also highlighted corruption and growing Chinese influence. US authorities were urged to monitor these threats and report regularly to Congress. The act expressed concern over democracy in Serbia. It cited flaws in December 2023 elections reported by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, including unequal procedures, overcrowded polling stations, and voter intimidation.

The act authorized a record $901 billion annual US military budget. It supported maintaining the EUFOR mandate in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It emphasized that Kosova, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia are vital for regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

Representative William Keating, author of the legislation, said its approval shows that the Western Balkans remains a US priority. He added that the act promotes democratic reforms, economic growth, trade, investment, civil society, media independence, cybersecurity, and regional cooperation.

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