The verdict against the former leaders of the KLA by the Specialized Chambers of Kosovo in The Hague has also been paid attention to by major international media.
The BBC reported on the sentencing of Hashim Thaçi, describing him as the co-founder and commander of the KLA, who fought for Kosovo’s independence. In the report, it is emphasized that Thaçi is considered a hero in Kosovo, while his political journey is also mentioned, from one of the leaders of the KLA to the first prime minister of Kosovo and then the president of the country.
The BBC also reported on the reactions in Kosovo after the announcement of the verdict where thousands of citizens watched the decision on big screens, while in Pristina there were reports of emotional reactions and citizens in tears.
Even CNN reported on the decision, emphasizing that the former president of Kosovo, Hashim Thaçi, was sentenced to 25 years in prison by the Specialized Chambers of Kosovo in The Hague for war crimes. The American medium points out that Thaçi resigned from the post of president in 2020 to face the charges. He was tried together with Kadri Vesel, Rexhep Selim and Jakup Krasniq, all former leaders of the KLA. The prosecution had requested sentences of up to 45 years in prison, while the four accused have denied the charges.
CNN also points out that in Kosovo, Thaçi, Veseli, Selimi and Krasniqi are widely regarded as national heroes and that thousands of citizens gathered in Pristina in their support.
In its reporting, CNN also recalls the Kosovo war, which lasted during the years 1998-1999, emphasizing that during the conflict, around 13 thousand people lost their lives, most of them Kosovar Albanians.
The former president of Kosovo, Hashim Thaçihas been sentenced to 25 years in prison, while the former speaker and spokesman of the KLA, Jakup Krasniqihas also been sentenced to 25 years in prison. Kadri Veseli was sentenced to 18 years in prison, while Rexhep Selimi with 13 years imprisonment.
