An explosion on Friday evening caused significant damage to a canal in northern Kosovo that supplies water to two coal-fired power plants, which are essential for generating nearly all of the country’s electricity. Prime Minister Albin Kurti labeled the incident a “terrorist act” perpetrated by neighboring Serbia.
While there were no immediate reports of injuries and the exact cause of the blast remains unclear, authorities noted that the explosion also affected drinking water supplies. Serbian officials did not respond to inquiries regarding the claims, and no immediate evidence linking Belgrade to the incident was found by Reuters.
In a televised address, Kurti declared, “This is a criminal and terrorist attack aimed at destroying our critical infrastructure,” warning that some regions could face power shortages if repairs are not completed by morning.
The incident underscores the ongoing ethnic tensions between Kosovo and Serbia, with Kurti supporting Kosovo President Vjosa Osmani in attributing the act to Serbian criminal gangs, though no proof has been provided.
Earlier on Friday, the Kosovo police announced heightened security measures following two recent incidents involving hand grenades thrown at a police station and a municipal building in northern Kosovo, an area with a significant ethnic Serbian population. It remains uncertain if these incidents are connected. Local media reported images of the damaged canal, which was seen leaking water, along with a heavy police presence in the area.
Faruk Mujka, the head of the Ibar-Lepenci water company, informed the local news portal Kallxo that an explosive device was thrown into the canal, damaging a bridge wall. He emphasized the urgency of halting the water supply to address the damage, as it is the primary channel for distributing water to Kosovo Energy Corporation (KEK), the nation’s main energy provider.
Kosovo declared its independence in 2008, following nearly a decade of tensions and conflict with Serbia, primarily driven by a guerrilla uprising. Nevertheless, conflicts continue, especially in northern Kosovo, where the Serb minority refuses to recognize Kosovo’s statehood and continues to regard Belgrade as their capital.
Aivo Orav, the EU’s ambassador to Kosovo, condemned the attack, stating it is already “depriving considerable parts of Kosovo of their water supply.”
