Serbia denies involvement in ‘reckless attack’ targeting Ibar-Lepenac canal

YEREVAN, DECEMBER 2, ARMENPRESS. Serbia strongly condemns the recent attack on the Ibar-Lepenac canal and denies any involvement in it, the Embassy of Serbia in Armenia said in a statement provided to Armenpress news agency.

Serbia unequivocally demands responsibility for the perpetrators of the “reckless attack,” the embassy said.

Kosovo authorities have blamed Serbia for the attack. 

Below is the statement released by the Serbian embassy.

“Belgrade distances from any involvement in the recent attack on the Ibar-Lepenac canal and strongly condemns the attack. Accusation against the Republic of Serbia lacks evidence, stands without foundation, and could contribute to the escalation in the region. Serbia unequivocally demands responsibility for the perpetrators of this reckless attack. Ibar-Lepenac is a critical waterway, essential for electricity production, agriculture, drinking water, and the overall well-being of the communities it serves.

“All parties are urged to avoid prematurely assigning blame and, instead, focus on collective efforts to prevent further destabilization in the region. Serbia advocates for cooperation, not division, and in order to achieve this, direct communication with KFOR and EULEX is essential to identify the perpetrators and ensure they are brought to justice.

“Belgrade stands ready to engage in an urgent session of the Dialogue on Normalization in Brussels, where the recent incident will be the main topic of discussion. Serbia calls all parties to resist provocations and prioritize dialogue, mutual understanding, and cooperation.

“The incident should not be used as a justification to increase the presence of so-called Kosovo Security Forces in the north of Kosovo and Metohija, nor to carry out any form of repression against the local Serbs, as this would further destabilize the situation.

“The attack on Ibar-Lepenac canal took place at a time of great sensitivity. A thorough and transparent, joint investigation on this act of sabotage is vital to prevent any negative repercussions that could jeopardize both the EU integration process and the Dialog on Normalization. Serbia stands ready to offer technical, financial and logistic assistance to address the consequences of attack.

“At the press conference of President of Serbia Aleksandar Vučić on 1 December 2024 it was highlighted that Serbia experienced a severe and substantial hybrid attack and emphasized that Belgrade had no involvement in the explosion. President Vučić highlighted that the Kosovo police, under the supervision of EULEX and in violation of current agreements, conducted an illegal investigation in northern Kosovo and Metohija, entering Serbian homes in Zubin Potok. Despite extensive searches, no incriminating evidence related to the alleged crime was found, and the detained individuals were released shortly afterward due to a lack of evidence.

“The President expressed full readiness to assist and support the ongoing investigation in Priština through EULEX and KFOR. Additionally, he informed that Belgrade is conducting an investigation of its own and collecting evidence and that we will insist on establishing the truth. Vučić also reiterated Serbia’s readiness to assist EULEX, KFOR, and other entities in the investigation. Additionally, he extended his gratitude to KFOR for refusing to permit the entry of Kosovo Security Forces into northern part of Kosovo and Metohija.

“Vučić stressed that if any Serbian individual were found responsible for the attack, they would be immediately arrested and prosecuted, though he expressed doubt that this would prove to be the case. He also noted that only nine minutes after the incident, Albin Kurti requested from NATO and KFOR to deploy Kosovo Security Forces in northern Kosovo and Metohija, raising questions about who would benefit from such an event. 

“He expressed confidence that the ongoing investigation would clarify the facts and demonstrate that Belgrade had absolutely no involvement. The Serbian government has committed to accepting the results of an international investigation conducted by interested parties.”