Vucic rejects blame while KFOR secures Ibar-Lepenac sabotage site

An explosion on the Ibar-Lepenac water canal in Zubin Potok on Friday evening caused significant damage to critical infrastructure, disrupting water and electricity supply in northern Kosovo. The blast, identified as an act of sabotage, prompted accusations from Kosovo's authorities against Serbia, alleging involvement by the Serbian state apparatus, including President Aleksandar Vucic and Milan Radoicic.

President Vucic strongly denied the allegations, stating Serbia had no role in the incident and would not justify itself for actions it did not commit. Speaking at a youth forum, he emphasized the importance of rational decision-making under pressure, remarking, “Why should I justify myself to anyone when they know we didn’t do it?”

The incident has drawn sharp condemnation from international actors, including NATO’s KFOR mission, which described the attack as a serious threat to Kosovo’s water and energy systems. KFOR personnel have secured the affected area and offered logistical, demining, and engineering assistance to Kosovo authorities. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment under its UN mandate.

The blast occurred near the village of Donje Varage, damaging a key junction of the canal and flooding a nearby household. Efforts by local teams restored water supply to Kosovo’s energy plants overnight, though drinking water distribution remains disrupted. Kosovo’s Prime Minister Albin Kurti visited the site and met with KFOR leadership, but details of the discussions remain undisclosed.

The incident has heightened tensions, with Kosovo’s National Security Council convening urgently and international representatives closely monitoring the situation. Investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible for the attack and bring them to justice.