Explosion in Kosovo Blamed as ‘Terrorist Act’ Disrupts Power and Water Supply

Explosion in Kosovo Damages Key Water Canal

On Friday evening, an explosion in northern Kosovo damaged a canal that supplies water to two coal-fired power plants. These plants provide nearly all of Kosovo’s electricity. Prime Minister Albin Kurti described the event as a “terrorist act” and blamed Serbia for the attack.

No injuries were reported. The cause of the explosion, which also affected drinking water supplies, remains unclear. Serbian officials have not commented, and there is no immediate evidence linking them to the blast.

In a televised address, Kurti called the incident a criminal and terrorist attack aimed at destroying critical infrastructure. He warned that parts of Kosovo might experience power outages if repairs are not completed quickly.

Kurti echoed President Vjosa Osmani by suggesting that Serbian criminal gangs were involved, but he did not provide evidence. The blast occurred amid rising ethnic tensions between Kosovo and Serbia. Earlier on the same day, Kosovo police had increased security after grenade attacks targeted a police station and a municipal building in predominantly Serbian areas.

Local media reported visible damage to the canal, with police present at the scene. Faruk Mujka, the head of Ibar-Lepenci water company, stated that an explosive device had been thrown into the canal, damaging a bridge’s wall. He emphasized the need to halt the water supply to make urgent repairs, as this canal is crucial for Kosovo Energy Corporation, the main power provider.

Kosovo declared independence in 2008 after a conflict with Serbia, but tensions persist, particularly in the north, where the Serb minority does not recognize Kosovo’s statehood. The EU’s Kosovo ambassador, Aivo Orav, condemned the attack, noting that it is already limiting water access for many in Kosovo.