Tensions Rise as Serbia Withdraws Troops from Kosovo Border Following US Warning

Serbia has partially withdrawn its troops from the Kosovo border following warnings from the US about a buildup of Serbian forces. The Serbian president, Aleksandar Vučić, stated that military action would be counterproductive and that Serbia does not want war. The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, called for immediate de-escalation and a return to previous agreements. Germany's ambassador to the US described the situation as a "powder keg" and emphasized the need for Serbia to act. Tensions escalated after an ambush by Serb paramilitaries on a Kosovan police patrol, resulting in casualties on both sides. Kosovo officials expressed concern that the incident could be used as a pretext for Serbian military intervention.