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Sputnik (8 February 2017)
MOSCOW (Sputnik) – Russia is in touch with Belgrade over the escalation of situation between Serbia and Kosovo, Russian Foreign Ministry's Fourth European Department Director Alexander Botsan-Kharchenko told Sputnik.

"Of course, we are in touch all the time. Interaction with Belgrade is also intensive in issues related to countering attempts to push Kosovo into international organizations," Botsan-Kharchenko said.

Botsan-Kharchenko added that the Belgrade plays the main role in the above-mentioned diplomatic efforts while Russia was assisting.

The diplomat also stressed "constructive spirit" of the Serbian government, which contributed to deescalation of tensions, however, did not get any response from the Kosovar side.

On Thursday, Kosovar President Hashim Thaci expressed concern over Belgrade's alleged propaganda and inciting ethnic hatred among Serbs in the north of Kosovo, urging NATO and the European Union to condemn Serbia's actions.

Kosovo unilaterally proclaimed independence from Serbia in 2008 and is recognized by over 100 UN member states. Serbia, as well as Russia, do not recognize Kosovo’s independence.

https://sputniknews.com/europe/201702081050478622-russia-serbia-kosovo-escalation/