Serbian President Boris Tadic early on Thursday urged KFOR and EULEX to refrain from using force and local Serb leaders to act only in the best interest of the people.

"I urge KFOR and EULEX to refrain from using force and local leaders to make only those decisions which serve the vital interest of the people and contribute to the survival of Serbs in Kosovo, and not their party leaders who are using this issue as a political tool for some future election," Tadic stressed in a statement for Tanjug.

The Serbian president pointed out "citizens must not resort to violence at any cost, because it will lead to disaster."

"The state of Serbia calls on all factors to strictly adhere to UN Security Council Resolution 1244 and the six-point plan brought forth by the UN Secretary-General, which define the status neutrality of the international institutions in Kosovo," said President Tadic, adding that normal delivery of supplies to international troops should be ensured.

EULEX-KFOR operation to re-establish freedom of movement

This morning, EULEX and KFOR began a joint operation to re-establish freedom of movement in northern Kosovo. Barricades were removed and vehicle check points and roadblocks set up. These actions have been taking place near Gate 31 and also in the Zubin Potok area.

The overall aim is to improve the rule of law situation in this part of Kosovo. EULEX briefly detained some individuals near Gate 31 but they were later released. There have been some minor incidents.

EULEX asks for people to remain calm and to respect the rule of law This is expected by all Member States of the European Union.