Serbia and Kosovo discuss a split

Russian officials also repeat the Serbian argument that independence for Kosovo will destabilize the Balkans. The Russians stress that independence would create a "dangerous precedent" for resolving "frozen" and other conflicts in the former Soviet space and elsewhere in the world.

In an article from the Madrid-based daily ABC, summarized by the Serbian Tanjug news agency, the Spaniards reiterated their concerns about the spread of instability.

"This would, from the highest place in the international community, add wind to the sails of separatists who wish to cancel the principle of territorial integrity," the daily writes in a lengthy analysis of the current Kosovo status process.

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"Besides, independence would inevitably create renewed regional instability, with potential to seriously 'infect' all neighbors," ABC says.

The article concludes that Kosovo's independence would represent "a giant step backwards for all mankind's efforts to build diversified communities made up of free citizens, capable of living in peace despite the differences."

In a blog for the Guardian, Antonio Cassese, the first president of the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia and a professor of law at the University of Florence, argues that an old and, now rarely used, UN measure may allow Kosovo and Serbia to reach a compromise. The measure would create a loose confederation, allotting Kosovo virtual independence, but allowing Serbia influence over its diplomatic decisions.

By means of a binding UN security council resolution, Kosovo could be granted full and exclusive authority over its citizens and territory, as well as limited capacity for action on the international scene. It could be authorised to enter into trade agreements as well as agreements concerning individuals (for example, admission and circulation of foreigners, or extradition), plus the right to seek admission to the UN (which does not require full sovereignty and independence).

Kosovo would thus gain some essential trappings of statehood. However, a decision-making body consisting of delegates from Kosovo, Serbia, and the European Union would be given full authority over major foreign policy issues (for example, alliances and relations with international economic institutions), defence, borders (in case Kosovo wished to join with Albania), and the treatment of Kosovo's Serbian minority. As a result, Kosovo and Serbia would constitute two distinct international subjects, bound by a confederation hinging on a common decision-making body.

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