Kosovo crowds rally against ex-president's war crimes sentence

Large crowds assembled in Pristina on Wednesday following the conviction of Thaci at a United Nations-backed court, with demonstrators expressing anger over the verdict and what they characterize as an unjust prosecution of a national leader. Thaci, who served as Kosovo's president until his arrest in 2020, was found guilty of war crimes and crimes against humanity dating to the armed conflict that culminated in Kosovo's independence declaration in 2008.

The former guerrilla commander faced charges related to his alleged role in killings, forced disappearances, and torture during the Kosovo Liberation Army's campaign for autonomy from Serbian rule. Supporters argue that Thaci and other independence fighters should not face prosecution for actions taken during what they view as a legitimate struggle for national self-determination.

The trial has remained highly sensitive in Kosovo, where many citizens view Thaci as a national hero despite the international court's findings. The conviction marks one of the most significant war crimes judgments related to the Balkans conflict, though similar proceedings have sparked controversy across the region. Thaci maintains his innocence and has indicated plans to appeal the court's decision.