The World

Looking ahead: US policy in the Balkans

Kosovo declared its independence with support from many Western countries — including the United States; The World’s Matthew Bell reports on what today’s events could mean for the future the Balkans and US policy in the region.

Global Politics

Today’s images from Belgrade are a reminder of the years of violence and war the region suffered through a decade ago. But this International Crisis Group observer says the atmosphere is fundamentally different now. but he says the Balkans are still unpredictable and there’s always potential for things to get worse. This retired US General agrees and he says the degree of mutual fear and hatred in Kosovo and Serbia is very great and they could add to divided cities and counties and that could impact normal lifestyle. He says the biggest concern for the 16,000 NATO troops stationed there is that violence could get out of control. but overall he thinks if security acts responsibly, the risk could be minimized.