Thousands in Kosovo rally against war crimes trial of ex-KLA commanders

Al JazeeraEN 2 min read 100% complete by Al Jazeera StaffFebruary 17, 2026 at 09:33 PM

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Thousands protested in Pristina, Kosovo, on February 17, 2026, against the war crimes trial of former Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) leaders at The Hague-based Kosovo Specialist Chambers. The trial, which is hearing closing arguments this week, involves former President Hashim Thaci and other high-ranking officials arrested in 2020. They are accused of persecution, murder, torture, and forced disappearances during and after the 1998-1999 uprising against Serbia. The conflict, which resulted in over 13,000 deaths, ultimately led to Kosovo's independence. While prosecutors seek 45-year sentences, the defendants deny all charges, and many in Kosovo view them as heroes of a liberation war. A final verdict is expected within three months.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Netherlands 40% Slobodan Milosevic 50% Pristina 50% Rexhep Selimi 60% Jakup Krasniqi 60% Kadri Veseli 60% Serbia ×360% Kosovo Specialist Chambers 65% The Hague ×270% Hashim Thaci ×380% Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) ×685% Kosovo ×890%

Keywords

war crimes trial 90% kosovo liberation army 80% war crimes 70% kosovo 70% hashim thaci 60% independence war 60% national liberation 50% the hague 50% slobodan milosevic 40%