In a strategic political maneuver, Kosovo's Prime Minister Albin Kurti formally endorsed the Albanian coalition for the upcoming extraordinary elections in Serbia, scheduled for December 17. This coalition, named "The Political Battle of Albanians Continues – Shaip Kamberi," unites five Albanian parties in a collective bid for representation. Kurti's backing underscores the coalition's role in advocating for the rights of the Albanian minority in Serbia, highlighting the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. This move signifies a calculated step in the political landscape, emphasising the ongoing quest for ethnic Albanian rights within the framework of Serbian governance. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

Elite Kosovo Police Unit Protests Government Policies The Special Intervention Unit has initiated a protest in front of the Government in Kosovo. In solidarity, other units of the Kosovo Police have joined the demonstration, supported by the Police Union of Kosovo. As the most elite unit in the Kosovo Police, the Special Intervention Unit is demanding a reevaluation of job positions and increased risk allowances. This unit had previously protested on November 1 and had announced another protest, which was later canceled after Prime Minister Albin Kurti invited them for a meeting. Subsequently, the Kosovo government approved risk pay increases for Police members, but it fell short of their expectations.

This collection provides a photographic documentation of the event organized by 'Kolektivi Feminist' in Prishtina, Kosovo on Oct 28, 2023. It captures the participants, their representations, and the overarching theme of solidarity with Palestinian civilians in Gaza.

Reviving Kosovo's Heritage: The Grateful Project Unveiled Gjilan, Kosovo by Vudi Xhymshiti. In the heart of Gjilan, Kosovo, a vibrant cultural renaissance unfolds, painting the town with hues of creativity and resilience. At its core stands the "Grateful Project," a testament to the dedication of young artists nurtured by the local cultural organization, "Varg e Vi". Migjen Fazliu, Director of "Varg e Vi," exuded passion as he shared his vision at Limon Bar in Gjilan's Shisha Bar on a late Saturday. With a gleam in his eyes, he described the project as a tapestry of gratefulness, where every colour and stroke represented acknowledgement. "Preserving the past, building a brighter future, together," he emphasized, encapsulating the essence of the project's profound mission. Fueled by gratitude for international allies who supported Kosovo during its darkest days, the project breathes life into a historic mural, blending the old with new, led by artistic director Din Azizi. Amidst strained relations, this initiative becomes a beacon of hope, a symbol of the community's determination to preserve history while embracing a future grounded in gratitude and resilience. Meet the unsung heroes: Robert Masurica, a graphic designer and war survivor, leads a team of passionate volunteers, working tirelessly to ensure the project's success. Almira Sylejmani, a young graphic design student, embodies the project's youthful spirit, emphasizing teamwork's vital role. Emira Brestovci dreams of shaping young minds as a graphic design teacher, believing in the project's power to paint a brighter tomorrow. Ronny Salihu, a dreamer beyond borders, finds personal meaning in the mural, reflecting his family's journey as war refugees. Hana Morina, a visionary architect, sees the mural as a silent promise, bridging Kosovo's past and its architectural future. Through their unwavering dedication, the "Grateful Project" is more than art on walls; it's a living testament to a resilient community shaping a boundless future, one brushstroke at a time.

Minister of Internal Affairs, Xhelal Sveçla, has revealed evidence of Deputy Chairman Milan Radojiçiq's involvement in Sunday's deadly attacks in the north, where Afrim Bunjaku was killed. Documents and attack plans were discovered within the Banjska Monastery. Investigations are underway to determine the full extent of Radojiçiq's involvement, stirring public outrage and demands for justice.

Kosovo, September 25, 2023 - Kosovo police officers were called to secure a crucial intersection near the Banjska Monastery in the village of Banjska on Monday, September 25, 2023. The heightened security measures came in response to a violent incident that took place Sunday morning Sept 24, 2023. Kosovo's Prime Minister, in a statement released on Sunday, attributed the violence to support from neighbouring Serbia. According to the Prime Minister, the attack resulted in the tragic loss of one police officer's life and left another injured. In an unexpected turn of events, the Kosovo Police reported that three assailants were killed during the incident, and six individuals have been arrested. Notably, two of those arrested were found to be in uniform and armed. This incident has further escalated tensions between Kosovo and Serbia, both former wartime adversaries, and comes at a pivotal moment in their European Union-mediated dialogue aimed at normalizing relations. The situation underscores the delicate nature of the peace efforts in the Balkans and raises concerns about the stability of the region. International observers will be closely monitoring developments as diplomatic efforts continue to address this challenging situation. (Photo and Words Credit: VX Photo/Vudi Xhymshiti)

In a tragic incident in north Kosovo, a police officer has been killed, and another injured. Police responded to a blocked road in Banjska, encountering gunfire and grenades. One officer tragically lost their life. Kosovo's Prime Minister blamed organized criminal groups with support from Belgrade. This incident heightens concerns over regional security and diplomatic actions.

In a press conference held in Prishtina on Monday, Prime Minister Albin Kurti of Kosovo voiced apprehensions regarding what he sees as a potential alignment between the European Union's envoy, Miroslav Lajcak, and Serbia, including their respective interests in the ongoing negotiations. Prime Minister Kurti suggested the presence of a potential bias in the negotiation process during his address to the media. He expressed these concerns during the conference, which took place on Monday, September 18, 2023. Notably, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for European Integration of the Republic of Kosovo, Besnik Bislimi, also shared these concerns during a separate address to the media on the same day. The alignment of interests between the EU envoy and Serbia has raised suspicions within the Kosovo government, as they fear it may impact the ongoing negotiations. Prime Minister Kurti and Deputy Prime Minister Bislimi appear united in their desire for a fair and unbiased negotiation process moving forward. Photo Credit: VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti

In a significant move for Kosovo's progress, President Dr. Vjosa Osmani Sadriu and US Ambassador Jeff Hovenier united forces, signing a $34.7 million financial assistance agreement in Prishtina on Friday, September 15, 2023. This agreement is set to drive Kosovo's economic and democratic development forward.

The statue of former American President Bill Clinton, who served as the 42nd President of the United States from 1993 to 2001 and hails from Arkansas, can be observed near the Mother Theresa Cathedral in Prishtina, the capital of Kosovo on Monday, Sept 11, 2023. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

GANNA Ensemble Mesmerizes Audience at Mitrovica International Jazz Days Mitrovica, Kosovo - August 30, 2023 The Mitrovica International Jazz Days witnessed a truly enchanting musical spectacle on its second day, as the GANNA Ensemble, led by accomplished Ukrainian vocalist and composer Ganna Gryniva, took the stage to deliver a spellbinding performance. The event, which unfolded on Tuesday, August 29, 2023, in the culturally rich city of Mitrovica, Kosovo, left the audience awe-inspired by the ensemble's remarkable musical artistry. Under the masterful direction of Ganna Gryniva, the GANNA Ensemble effortlessly merged diverse musical elements, weaving a tapestry of harmonies that resonated through the historic venue. Gryniva's prowess as both a vocalist and a composer was evident as the ensemble navigated intricate rhythms and intricate melodies, captivating the audience from the very first note. The Mitrovica International Jazz Days is renowned for celebrating the global tapestry of jazz, showcasing performances that defy musical boundaries and create connections across cultures. The GANNA Ensemble, with their unique blend of Ukrainian musical traditions and contemporary jazz influences, was a true embodiment of this ethos. The audience, consisting of music enthusiasts and jazz aficionados from near and far, was treated to an evening of musical magic as the GANNA Ensemble flawlessly executed a repertoire that showcased their versatility and virtuosity. The ensemble's synergy was palpable, with each member contributing their individual brilliance to create a collective musical experience that left an indelible mark.

Discover Velania, a historic district in Prishtina, Kosovo, through captivating images. This gallery highlights the serene "Old" Jewish Cemetery on Tauk Bahqe hill and a dignified Mosque atop the hill. Experience the harmony of tradition and modernity while honouring these landmarks' significance. Join us in this visual exploration of Velania's cultural tapestry. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

Step into the heart of Prishtina, the vibrant capital of Kosovo, and you'll find a juxtaposition of time-honoured history and the relentless march of modernity. The streets and pathways, once marred by potholes and muddy tracks, now bear the mark of heavy vehicles, creating an unexpectedly rugged urban experience. Amidst this evolving cityscape, a new phenomenon has emerged, altering the city's skyline and spirit: the ascendancy of multi-story apartment complexes. Through the photographs, I will walk you through the chaos of housing in Prishtina, where the age-old charm of its alleys contrasts starkly with the towering structures that have sprouted seemingly overnight. This series of images embarks on an exploration of this very juxtaposition, capturing the essence of a housing revolution that has transformed the city's fabric.

Situated approximately 14 kilometres to the south of Prishtina, the capital of Kosovo, in close proximity to the western outskirts of Gracanica, the Ulpiana Archaeological Park emerges as a site of historical significance. Within its boundaries lie vestiges of antiquity, awaiting exploration by both enthusiasts and inquisitive individuals. Recent archaeological ventures have unearthed compelling discoveries orchestrated by a heterogeneous assemblage of international and local experts, overseen by the leadership of Professor Christophe J. Goddard. Notably, a proclamation of considerable consequence emerged from the core of Ulpiana—an inscription attesting to Emperor Justinian (527-565 AD) and his spouse Theodora's dedication of an "urbs Dardaniae". This inscription's singularity is underscored by its rarity, representing one of the scant Latin dedicatory acts by the imperial couple within the latter period of the Roman Empire. Among the notable findings is an intricately crafted mosaic, retrieved from the annals of time, encapsulating the ethos of an era long elapsed. Additionally, the unearthing of a grand episcopal basilica in the year 2022 further amplifies the intrigue. These palpable achievements trace their origins to the initiatives of a project propelled by financial support from the European Union, denominated as “The European Archaeological Mission in Kosovo*: from Ulpiana to Iustiniana Secunda”. This endeavour, anticipated to culminate by December 2024, serves as a testament to collaborative synergy, effectively bridging historical narratives with contemporary aspirations. Beholding the panoramic vista of the park, one is beckoned to immerse oneself in the faint echoes of antiquity's murmurs. Within this realm, the legacy of emperors finds expression in enduring stone, while mosaics articulate the tales of eras long faded. Thus, the Ulpiana Archaeological Park stands as an enclave where the ceaseless passage of time converges with resurgent historical vivacity.

Step into the captivating world of Gjilan, a town nestled in the heart of eastern Kosovo, where the pages of history meet the vibrant pulse of modern life. Known also by the name Gnjilane, this town is not just a geographic location; it's a tapestry woven with threads of culture, diversity, and resilience. As you explore the following gallery of Gjilan's landscape pictures, you'll journey through its intriguing facets, from the gentle undulations of its fertile farmlands to the intricate blend of architectural styles that grace its streets. Let the captivating fusion of old and new, tradition and progress, guide you through this visual tale, as Gjilan reveals its myriad hues of life, culture, and identity. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

As summer nears its end, people enjoy the final weeks along the bustling food market in downtown Prishtina, Kosovo's capital, shown on Wednesday, August 16, 2023. (VX PHOTO/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

In my journey, I encountered Pera, just a stone's throw from Vernakollë, nestled in the village of Vrenez. This desolate expanse now hosts a dozen grazing cows. Pera, an 85-year-old Croat-Kosovar, shares the solitude of this eerie landscape. His wife, seeking sanctuary in Zagreb, Croatia, driven by health and safety concerns, left Pera with neither refuge nor companionship. Stripped of sustenance, vital services, and the basics of existence, Pera's plight paints a grim portrait. Healthcare, electricity, and water supplies are distant dreams in this forsaken territory. The village itself remains deserted, a poignant aftermath of the Croatian conflict and the receding echoes of Serbian forces, etched in the forgotten annals of history.

Nestled within the serene embrace of Vernakolo village, time stands as a silent witness to lives marked by steadfast resilience. Here, amid the embrace of rugged mountains, unfolds the narrative of Frana Tunic, 75, and Verka Tunic, 66, a tale that mirrors the intricate dance between heritage and adversity. Frana, his hands bearing the imprints of nature's ruggedness, embarked on a modest yet profound venture – a €300 donkey from Kacanik. This stalwart companion aids him as he navigates the challenging terrain, steadfastly ferrying groceries and necessities to their unassuming dwelling. Their union, a fusion of diverse origins, weaves a story that spans borders. Frana's lineage traces to Croatia, his father's homeland, while his mother's heritage ties to Albanian roots. Verka, his steadfast partner, carries the weight of leg pain and heartaches, yet her eyes shimmer with a hope that brightens their secluded sanctuary. "In our world, there's no home, no surroundings; only chance visitors who might grace us," Verka's soft words resonate. Their existence is simple, yet their challenges are profound. Bereft of running water for half a dozen years, sustenance hinges on a modest €100 state pension. Amid this backdrop, Frana grapples with the grip of the affliction known as Bruhi. Procuring groceries transforms into a journey of endurance, as taxi fares extract €20 for each round. Stocking provisions is a luxury beyond their reach, and mealtimes are subject to the vagaries of scarce supplies. Amid the ruins of a dilapidated dwelling, they find strength, while the endeavor to rejuvenate abandoned neighboring homes provides solace. Frana's lifeline has always been intertwined with Vernakolo, a bond that deepened as his siblings dispersed, some to Ferizaj and others to the Croatian landscape. Their 50-year-old son, a resident of Zagreb, occasionally graces them with his presence, a fleeting respite that warms their aging hearts. Whispers of the past linger in their memories – Frana's skilled welding days and the echoes of a village hollowed by the aftermath of conflict. Their story is one of survival, unwavering determination, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. As they tend to their modest haven, the chronicle of Frana and Verka Tunic stands as a poignant testament to the unvoiced struggles interwoven into the fabric of existence. A narrative of a Croat-Kosovar couple, bound by affection and rooted in ancestral soil, unfolds against the backdrop of a village cradling the echoes of generations.

On Friday, Aug 4, 2023, a general view captured the atmosphere at the central roundabout of Zubin Potok municipality in northern Kosovo. The Government of Kosovo has taken the initiative to lay the groundwork for organizing new early elections in four municipalities located in the northern part of Kosovo: Zveҫan, Leposaviq, Zubin Potok, and North Mitrovica. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

Welcome to our gallery showcasing some of Kosovo's most important landmarks of public interest. Through stunning visual displays and informative exhibits, we aim to highlight the rich cultural and historical significance of these renowned sites. From the timeless beauty of the Gračanica Monastery to the historical significance of the Pristina National Library, each landmark represents a vital part of Kosovo's heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a traveler eager to explore new horizons, or someone passionate about architecture and art, this gallery offers a captivating insight into the diverse and captivating landmarks that have shaped the identity of Kosovo. Come and immerse yourself in the beauty and cultural richness of these cherished places that have become emblematic symbols of pride for the people of Kosovo.

The Association of Journalists of Kosovo (AJK) has initiated a protest on Monday, July 31, 2023, supported by some media outlets and some civil society organizations, in a display of revolt against the suspension of the business certificate of "Klan Kosova" by the Ministry of Industry, Entrepreneurship, and Trade. The protest is a response to the recent decision by the Ministry, which has generated significant controversy within the media and civil society circles. "Klan Kosova" is a prominent media organization in Kosovo, and the suspension of its business certificate is perceived by many as an attack on press freedom and journalistic independence. Recent revelations have brought to light two significant legal issues surrounding the prominent media company "Klan Kosova": 1) concerns over its media licensing obligations, and 2) questions about its business license compliance. However, from 2013 to 2020, Klan Kosova reportedly failed to seek approval or disclose its sources of financing and ownership changes. The revelations have raised concerns within the media community and among the public, calling for a thorough investigation into the company's compliance with media licensing and business regulations. The unfolding situation with Klan Kosova poses a crucial test for media integrity and regulatory enforcement in Kosovo. With public trust in the media at stake, it is essential for the relevant authorities to conduct a swift and impartial investigation into the media company's practices, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements.

Kosovar ethnic Albanians patiently line up in long queues at the Kosovo-Serbia border crossings near the villages of Muçibabë in Kosovo and Depcë in Serbia, located in southern Kosovo, on Saturday, July 29, 2023. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

The Hydro-Meteorological Institute of Kosovo has announced that ON WEDNESDAY, JULY 19, 2023 - the weather will be sunny, and temperatures will reach up to 37 degrees Celsius. The HIK informs that the minimum temperatures are expected to range between 15-19 degrees Celsius, while the maximum temperatures during the day are projected to be between 33-37 degrees Celsius. In many urban areas, the presence of these air masses will create the possibility for temperatures to reach up to 40 degrees Celsius. The high level of humidity will generate steam, and the perceived temperatures will be higher than the recorded values. The HIK calls for extra caution during these days. Since the UV index will be very high, it is recommended to limit exposure to sunlight as much as possible, wear protective sunglasses, use umbrellas, wear light-coloured clothing, apply appropriate sunscreens for skin protection, and drink water frequently.

Gjilan, Kosovo - On Sunday, July 16, 2023, Mayor Alban Hyseni of Gjilan, a southeastern city in Kosovo, unveiled a comprehensive 6-month working report to an eager audience of local citizens. The report highlighted the progress and achievements made by the mayor during his term since the last local elections. Mayor Hyseni took the stage, exuding confidence and determination, as he delved into the details of the working report. The speech was a testament to his commitment to transparency and accountability, offering a thorough overview of the initiatives undertaken by his administration. From infrastructure improvements to social programs, the report covered a wide range of areas crucial to the city's development.

Veterans of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) Organization have called for a protest this Saturday to oppose the newly passed Minimum Wage Law. The law, approved this Thursday, July 13, 2023, does not guarantee them a pension equal to the minimum wage. In addition to the protest, the veterans have threatened to disrupt any parliamentary session. While the government considered it a success, the approval of the Minimum Wage Law has been met with opposition from the Veterans' Organization of the Kosovo Liberation Army. (VX PHOTO/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

As soon as I arrived at the Kelmendi family's doorstep in Kosovo, I felt an immediate sense of belonging. The warmth of their smiles and open arms welcomed me into their world with ease, and I found myself immersed in their incredible story of family bonds, musical talent, and the unyielding spirit of the human soul. I had first heard of the Kelmendis from a friend who spoke highly of their musical talents and their honour of representing Albania in the Euro Vision song contest. Intrigued, I reached out to them, and they graciously invited me to join them on a journey through their past. Together, we explored the halls of an abandoned primary school in Prishtina where Albina's mother had first performed. The walls echoed with memories of her beautiful voice, and the weight of history could be felt in the air. We then embarked on a two-hour drive to the village of Terstenik in the Peja region, where Albina's father, Bujar Kelmendi, had taken the stage for the first time. It was surreal to stand in the same place where this incredible family had begun to shape their musical legacy. Despite the chilly weather, the Kelmendi family shared a warm and cheerful lunch in Peja. Their culture, humour, and kindness made me feel like part of the family, and I knew that I had found something special in their presence. During my time with them, I was lucky enough to be given an exclusive premiere of the music video for their song "DUJE." The level of care and detail that had gone into its production was awe-inspiring, and I was overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of their work. Although I felt a bit awkward in my reaction to the video clip, spending time with the Kelmendi family helped me to reconnect with the country, culture, and music that I had missed so much since leaving Kosovo in 2015. I took the opportunity to search for Albina's songs and other family members' performances on YouTube during a day break in my apartment in Prishtina. I was amazed by Albina's voice and authenticity in her live performances, and I knew that she was destined for greatness. In my opinion, Albania made an exceptional choice in selecting Albina and "DUJE" to represent them in the Euro Vision song contest. The Kelmendi family's musical talents are unparalleled, and I only wish them the best of luck in their upcoming performance. I hope that Kosovo will soon be recognized as a full member of Euro Vision so that they can showcase their incredible heritage on the world stage. The Kelmendi family would be an incredible honour to both Kosovo and Albania, and I know that they will continue to inspire and delight audiences with their music for years to come.

Kosovo's leadership headed by Madame President Vjosa Osmani gathered at "Adem Jashari" barracks in honour of the 25th anniversary of the "KLA Epopee" and in memory of the fall of the legendary Commander Adem Jashari, the Jashari Family and all the nation's martyrs who fell for freedom. Kosovo Security Force showed the power of the newly established army of Kosovo in the capital Prishtina, on Sunday, Mar 5, 2023. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

People walk past the newborn monument in Prishtina, Kosovo, on Monday, Feb 27, 2023. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti) The Newborn Monument is a typographic sculpture and tourist attraction in Kosovo. Located in front of the Palace of Youth and Sports, the monument was unveiled on 17 February 2008, when Kosovo formally declared its independence from Serbia.

Since the start of the full-scale Russian war in Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the fifteen years youngest European state Kosova has been a haven for journalists fleeing war. In collaboration with the country's journalist's association and European Centre for press and media freedom ECPMF, the Kosovo government committed to a programme called "Journalists in residence". It is designed to host 20 Ukrainian journalists forced from their country after Russia's invasion. Since the arrival of the first journalist, Liudymyla Makey, in April 2022, 13 journalists have benefited from the program, and 12 of them are now living and working in Kosovo. Kosova's capital Prishtina is relatively tiny, nearly 220 meters square; it is the capital and the economic, financial, political and trade centre of Kosovo. It is the seat of power of the Government of Kosovo, the residence for work of the President, Prime Minister, and the Parliament of the country. It is estimated that nearly two hundred thousand people live in the capital, with a few small squares. Scanderbeg square faces the national theatre and lies by the PM and President's Office to the right, a preferred meetings landmark for Ukrainian journalists in Kosovo. This weekend, I met with Liudmyla, 71, Serhii, 62 and Olena, 37, I took their portraits, and we walked to a local coffee nearby to sit and talk.

On the anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Kosovo's state leadership organised a ceremony to hand over letters of gratefulness to Ukrainian journalists sheltered in Kosovo. The country's president Vjosa Osmani, assembly speaker Glauk Konjufca and PM Albin Kurti attended the ceremony in the capital Prishtina, Kosovo, on Friday, Feb 24, 2023. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti) Kosovo offered shelter for up to six months to 20 Ukrainian journalists forced to leave their country following the invasion by Russia. Journalists selected by the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) and the European Center for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) have been living and working in Kosovo since last year's April. The government allocated over 150,000 euros to pay for their living costs, wages and offices to enable them to work remotely. Kosovo is neither a NATO nor an EU member but has joined other Western countries in introducing sanctions on Russia. Ukraine does not recognize Kosovo’s independence but has 40 troops serving as peacekeepers under a NATO mission.

Multiple Ukrainian national flags stand tall on masts across the Kosovan capital's 'Mother Theresa" boulevard in Prishtina, Kosovo, on Thursday, Feb 23, 2023. Kosovo is one of the first Western Balkan countries to align its foreign policy with the Western World against the Russian military aggression on Ukraine, which President Vladimir Putin launched on the 24th of February 2022. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti) Kosovo declared independence from Serbia (who aligned its foreign policy with Russian aggression in Ukraine) eight years (in 2008) following a NATO Bombing campaign (in 1999), which aimed at halting the ethnic cleansing campaign of ethnic Albanians by the Milosevic regime. Serbian armed forces of Yugoslavia had systematically targeted ethnic Albanians following the arrival of Milosevic on top of Yugoslavia in 1989. Serbia is responsible for the death of nearly 250,000 people across the Balkans within one decade. Around 110 countries recognise Kosovo's 2008 declaration of independence from Serbia but not Serbia, Russia, Ukraine, China and five European Union member states.

This Sunday, Feb 19, 2023, I visited Kosova's ski resort in Brezovica. I found nearly 15.6/km of slopes for sliding with a sledge, skis and snowboard. Kosova's national park in Brezovica has hills between the elevations of 1718 and 2,522 m above sea level, and the high grounds are amazing. There are nine lifts to transport visitors and plenty of hotels, restaurants and villas to feed the visitors and keep warm throughout the icy cold nights. What's to have fun with? Well, from snowboarding to any pair of skis you can rent, four-by-four trek motors and snowmobiles, which you can either drive by yourself for €35 per round or get a ride on a taxi snowmobile for as cheap as €2,50 per person. Brezovica ski centre is a mountain resort and Kosovo's most important winter tourism centre. Located on the slopes of the Sharr Mountains, it is mainly a destination for skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, eco-tourism opportunities include hiking, mountain biking, golf, and other outdoor recreational activities. Hiking paths can lead the visitors to the nearby Livadh Lake. The ski resort possesses 14 runways, five chair lifts and five ski lifts, connected with 16 km of ski slopes of an average length of 3 km. This Sunday, only two chair lifts and one ski lift were operational. But, there's a problem: driving in the middle of the day might force you to leave your vehicle far down the hill, which would be a footwalk of nearly 5/km from where the police might ask you to park by to the very heart of winter entertainment in Brezovica's slopes. Along the way, my driver had to trick traffic police three times into making them believe we would park the vehicle right where they asked him to. However, as soon as police patrol thought we were parking aside, they'd continue down the road to ensure other forthcoming visitors would not continue ahead and generate a hell of a jam. Well, I know this was wrong for our driver to do. However, we had the equipment to carry, and we wouldn't be able to make it by the day if we had parked the vehicle where the lovely officers kindly asked us to park. Sometimes, you have to roll the dice and hope for the best. We did and made it right up to bring our vehicle where needed. As we drove and walked in turns, I saw loads of people, groups of friends and families walking up and down the valley, some leaving and some just about arriving, loads of vehicles and buses parked by. Still, I was shocked to see a parking lot marked as a bus stop, but it wasn't filled with buses. Unfortunately, it was filled with trash. Trash was covered with snow that was pushed aside from the main road. That was depressive and unfortunate enough that it would repulse many visitors who might have arrived for the first time. And who might wanna spend their money somewhere they feel that they and the nature they live in enjoy the privilege of care? Photojournalist: Vudi Xhymshiti Production assistant: Edvin Demolli

Armed Forces of the Republic of Kosovo attended a military parade of various infantry units on the fifteenth jubilee anniversary of the independence of Kosovo in the capital Prishtina, Kosovo, on Friday, Feb 17, 2023. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

Albanian President Bajram Begaj met the Kosovan Prime Minister Albin Kurti ahead of the fifteenth anniversary of the declaration of Independence of Kosovo in the capital Prishtina, on Thursday, Feb 16, 2023. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

Torrential rains that hit Kosovo on January 19 have damaged households, businesses, crops and road infrastructure in several municipalities of Kosovo. This Saturday, Jan 21, 2023, I travelled to Skenderaj, the largest city in the Drenica region, located northwest of the capital Prishtina, home to nearly 60000 people. As we drove through, it was wet, rainy and cold. People were accommodating and suggested we visit a deep village called Tushilë, which was a 12 minutes drive southwest of Skenderaj. In Tushilë, we saw a few official vehicles going towards the village; Klina river was at a lower level as we went through, but debris of plastic bags and various fabrics hanging throughout the trees, bushes and stones along the bed of the river and mud dangling along the road was freshly a reminder that the risk is there. As we reached the end of Tushilë, we came across broken walls and doors of the Imeri family, whose households went through devastating days of floods. An entire two floors house, one of two houses, had turned into one floor, as the flooding water from the river had damaged its structure, causing the entire first floor to collapse. "We are lucky nobody was sitting on the first floor," said Avdullah Imeri, 58 years of age, father of two boys. I also met a couple, Hajriz Imeri, 67 and Vezire Imeri, 60, parents of eight children, living with five of them. The couple and their son Arsim, a 29 years of age economist, say they don't remember ever seeing such floods in their village. "Even my father, who lived here all his life, never mentioned any floods of such level," said Hajriz Imeri, a retired teacher of Albanian literature. "These floods destroyed our lifetime investment," says Vezire Imeri as she weeps on the muddy ground floor of her house, entirely ruined. Photojournalist: Vudi Xhymshiti Production assistant: Edvin Demolli.

Five International envoys to meet Kosovan PM Kurti, Prishtina, Kosovo The five international envoys arrived at the Government of the Republic of Kosovo in the morning in Prishtina, Kosovo, on Friday, Jan 20, 2023. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti) Kosovan Prime Minister Albinm Kurti is hosting the Special Representative of the European Union for the Kosovo-Serbia Dialogue, Miroslav Lajčák (not in the picture), Jens Plötner (second from right), the foreign policy and security advisor of the German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Emmanuel Bonne (second from the left) advisor to the French President Emmanuel Macron, Francesco Maria Talò (first from left) the diplomatic adviser to the Prime Minister of Italy, and Gabriel Escobar (first from right) the United States Deputy Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs and, at the same time, the United States Special Envoy for the Western Balkans.

Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon met with Kosovo Deputy PM and Foreign Affairs Minister Donika Gervalla-Schwarz on Monday, Jan 16, 2023. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti) Slovenian FA Minister Fajon suggested that Kosovo maintain its international image at any cost during a press conference in Prishtina, Kosovo's capital. When asked about the mon-ethnic based Serb-dominated Association of municipalities as demanded by Belgrade, Foreign Minister Gervalla-Schwarz said that Kosovo would not abide by previously signed agreements in contravention of the country's constitution.

People, politicians and foreign ambassadors gathered to honour 45 massacred ethnic Albanians by the Serbian Armed Forces of Yugoslavia 24 years ago in Racak, Kosovo, this Sunday, Jan 15, 2023. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti) The Račak massacre was the massacre of 45 Kosovo Albanians in January 1999 in Reçak, located in central Kosovo. Serbian security forces perpetrated the massacre. A group of approximately 25 men attempted to hide in a building but were discovered by the Serbian police. They were beaten and removed to a nearby hill, where the policemen shot and killed them. Altogether, the forces of the FRY and Serbia killed approximately 45 Kosovo Albanians in and around Racak. The immediate cause of the conflict in Kosovo was Slobodan Milosevic and his oppression of the ethnic Albanians there for the preceding decade. The Raçak massacre sparked international outrage and was one of the factors that led to the 1999 NATO bombing campaign that ended the bloody two-year war of Kosovar independence.

VX Pictures photographed Prishtina International Airport facilities on Friday, Jan 13, 2023. The airport is the only port of entry for air travellers to Kosovo. It is named in honour of Adem Jashari, the founder of the Kosovo Liberation Army. Throughout 2022, Pristina International Airport has served a record number of travellers, processing around 3 million people with 21,842 flights in a single year. In 2022, the number of passengers reached 2,994,560 or 37.31 per cent more than the previous year's period. The top 5 trending destinations regarding the number of travellers flying to Pristina include Switzerland, Germany, Turkey, Austria and the United Kingdom. Other countries on the list include Sweden, Italy, Belgium, Norway and Finland, among many others. (VX Photo/ Vudi Xhymshiti)

US Envoys arrived ON WEDNESDAY, JAN 11, 20223 — to meet with Kosovo's leadership amid new international efforts to speed up normalizing relations between Kosovo and Serbia.