Bridge of Discord: Ethnic Tensions Brew in Kosovo's Divided City

A new Albanian-run cafe in North Mitrovica, Kosovo, faces boycotts from local Serbs amid ethnic tensions. The area's fragile peace is threatened by cultural divides, intensified by social media campaigns. Efforts to reopen a symbolic bridge further exacerbate interethnic disputes, stirring broader geopolitical concerns.

A newly opened cafe, Missini Sweets, in North Mitrovica, Kosovo, is embroiled in ethnic tensions. Run by ethnic Albanians, the cafe faces boycotts by local Serbs. A Telegram video calling for a boycott plays a pivotal role in the hostility. Other businesses in the area encounter similar challenges.

Mitrovica's tense history, marked since the 1999 Kosovo war's ethnic shift, is revitalizing fear and division. Residents and officials report strained relations as discussions to reopen a contentious bridge between communities proceed. Tensions remain high, notably due to Kosovo's bid for EU accession contingent on resolving diplomatic differences.

Despite calls for unity, efforts by Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti face backlash. Ethnic Serbs view these as attempts to extend Albanian influence. Meanwhile, NATO officials caution against reopening the Mitrovica Bridge as potential provocations could prompt violence threatening troops stationed in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)