EU Powers to Recognize Kosovan Statehood

After declaring its independence, Kosovo did not have to wait long for supporters and opponents to step forward. Britain, France and Germany announced they would recognize the new state, and US President George Bush expressed unofficial enthusiasm. But states with troublesome separatist movements of their own, like Spain and Cyprus, are less enthusiastic. Both Serbia and Kosovo would like to join the EU, but now, the EU is divided over the very question of Kosovo’s independent existence. Russia and China, meanwhile, have also made clear that they oppose independence for Kosovo. Kosovo’s declaration of independence not only divides opinions in Europe, but could also renew Cold War–style tension. – YaleGlobal