WAR IN EUROPE
The balkan powderkeg erupts again
On the morning of May 21st 2021. Approximately 12 hours ago the Armed forces of Serbia launched several attacks across the borders with Kosovo and Montenegro.
1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Land forces Brigades are reportedly spearheading the attacks with airstrikes reported all along the border regions.
This comes after an escalation in rhetoric from the new Serbian government in recent months. Denouncing Kosovo and Montenegro as illegitimate breakaway regions of Serbia and has vowed to restore them to Serbian control.
While the US and NATO had been tracking a buildup of forces along the Kosovan border, key elements of an invasion were still lacking, such as the required logistics and medical train. These perceived shortcomings seem to have caused a severe underestimation of Serbia’s military capabilities as well as the new Serbian government's willingness to use military force to further its foreign policy goals.
Initial reports suggest the Serbian forces are making quick progress into Kosovo and Montenegro with scattered indications of heavy Serbian casualties at a handful of strongpoints across Kosovo. Rumors persist that these strongpoints are held by American special forces who were in Kosovo to train the KSF, although no official statements to that effect have been forthcoming from the US Department of Defense. Neither as any official statements come from Russia in regards to the Fighter regiment stationed on Serbian airbases. ADANews will continue to monitor the conflict as always.
Forces of the Serbian 3rd Brigade advancing into Kosovo.
Simon Tam
ADANews
War Correspondent