Trilateral Military Cooperation Agreement Between Albania, Kosovo, and Croatia

A New Era of Defense Collaboration

On March 18, 2025, Albania, Kosovo, and Croatia signed a historic trilateral military cooperation agreement in Tirana. This pact, formalized by the defense ministers of the three countries, signifies a major step in enhancing defense ties in the Balkans. The agreement is centered on joint military exercises, improving military-industrial cooperation, and advancing military education.

Strengthening Ties for Euro-Atlantic Integration

Albania and Croatia are already NATO members, while Kosovo aspires to join the alliance. This trilateral agreement reflects a shared commitment to Euro-Atlantic integration and aims to strengthen military collaboration in a region with complex geopolitical dynamics. The defense ministers involved in the agreement include Pirro Vengu of Albania, Ejup Maqedonci of Kosovo, and Ivan Anušić of Croatia. Together, they have forged an important alliance that focuses on regional stability and military preparedness.

The signing of the agreement in Tirana sends a clear message of unity among these pro-Western nations. They aim to bolster their collective defense capabilities, particularly against emerging threats in the region. By engaging in joint military exercises, these countries are working toward greater interoperability, which is crucial in today’s rapidly changing security environment.

Regional Tensions and Serbia’s Reaction

While the trilateral agreement is framed as a cooperative effort, it has sparked tensions in the region, particularly with Serbia. Serbia views the pact with suspicion, labeling it a “provocation.” This reaction is rooted in the long-standing historical animosities between these countries, particularly during the Yugoslav Wars of the 1990s. The 1998–1999 conflict in Kosovo culminated in NATO’s bombing campaign against Serbia, which led to Kosovo’s eventual independence.

Despite Kosovo’s independence being recognized by over 100 countries, Serbia has consistently refused to acknowledge it. Therefore, Serbia’s objections to the military pact stem from its sensitivity toward Kosovo’s international partnerships. It sees this new trilateral alliance as a challenge to its territorial integrity and influence in the Balkans.

The Anti-Serbian Bloc Debate

Some analysts and commentators have speculated that this trilateral agreement represents an anti-Serbian bloc, with Albania, Kosovo, and Croatia aligning against Serbia and its ally, Republika Srpska in Bosnia. This interpretation is fueled by the region’s historical conflicts and geopolitical complexities.

Serbia’s neutrality, balancing ties with Russia, China, and the West, further complicates this situation. Serbia has resisted fully aligning with EU sanctions against Russia over the conflict in Ukraine, a stance that has earned it closer ties with Moscow. Russia has historically supported Serbia, especially regarding the Kosovo issue, which fuels suspicions in the West. Some see the new military pact as a strategic move to counter any growing Russia-Serbia axis in the Balkans.

However, framing this agreement solely as an anti-Serbian measure oversimplifies the situation. While Serbia’s reaction is sharp, it is primarily motivated by Kosovo’s involvement, rather than a direct threat to Serbia itself. The agreement’s stated goals focus on boosting defense capabilities, addressing hybrid threats, and promoting peace—not provoking any specific country.

Aligning with NATO’s Strategy

The military cooperation pact also aligns with NATO’s broader strategy in the Balkans. NATO has long sought to ensure stability in the region, particularly in the face of potential threats from external actors, such as Russia. In this context, the trilateral agreement can be seen as a reinforcement of NATO’s influence, as Albania and Croatia are NATO members, and Kosovo aspires to be part of the alliance.

Some analysts have speculated that this agreement isolates Serbia and its ally, Republika Srpska, while aligning with NATO’s strategic interests. However, these assumptions remain speculative, and the pact’s actual goals seem to be more focused on regional stability and defense collaboration.

Beyond Serbia: The Role of Hungary

Hungary’s growing ties with Serbia may also be a factor in the region’s evolving dynamics. Hungary’s potential defense pact with Serbia has been rumored, which could further complicate the regional balance of power. However, Hungary is not directly involved in this trilateral agreement, and there is no firm evidence to suggest that the pact is targeting Hungary specifically.

Instead, the agreement appears to be a strategic move by Albania, Kosovo, and Croatia to reinforce their pro-Western orientation and strengthen their military ties. It is important to note that while Serbia’s military buildup and Hungary’s independent approach may influence the region, the goals of the trilateral pact remain focused on cooperation rather than confrontation.

A Strategic Shift, Not a Provocation

The signing of the trilateral military cooperation agreement between Albania, Kosovo, and Croatia marks a significant shift in the defense landscape of the Balkans. While the pact has generated tensions, particularly with Serbia, it is not explicitly aimed at provoking any nation. Instead, the agreement seeks to enhance defense capabilities, address emerging security threats, and promote regional peace and stability.

While speculation about anti-Serbian motives and a potential Russia-Serbia alliance may persist, the actual objectives of the trilateral agreement suggest a focus on collaboration and resilience. The future of the Balkans remains uncertain, with competing interests and shifting alliances. However, this new military cooperation is likely to shape the region’s defense dynamics in the years to come.