Putin: Recognition of Kosovo was a very dangerous precedent
The recognition of Kosovo’s secession “undoubtedly fired up separatism and presents a very dangerous precedent”, Russian president Vladimir Putin said.
(KosovoCompromise Staff) Monday, March 10, 2008
"Separatism in Europe has received an additional push and, no matter who tries to soften this inertia, it will continue to exist", Putin said after meeting German chancellor Angela Merkel.
Putin called the Kosovo precedent "very damaging" and added that the West has now taken the role of the former USSR "which was always defending the right to self-determination".
"They got what they wanted", the Russian president said.
He said Moscow could recognize Kosovo's independence only under the auspices of international law and with the agreement of Serbia.
"If such a compromise can be found, we will agree to it", Putin said.
Merkel said Germany and Russia had diverging views on Kosovo's status, but added that discussions would continue on the matter.
Meanwhile, in Bratislava, Czech president Vaclav Klaus said on Monday he too feared the impact of Kosovo's secession.
"I think that we opened the Pandora's box in Europe which can have an unfortunate impact and that is why I am afraid of it", he said.
