MAKFAX - Belgrade, 3.07.2007 12:10

The European Union will assume responsibility and make the decision on Kosovo if Russia persistently says 'no', said the spokesperson of the EU High Representative Javier Solana.

The EU foreign police chief Javier Solana's spokeswoman Cristina Gallach told Vecernje Novosti daily that the European Union will seek support from the UN Security Council if Russia rejects the draft on the future status of Kosovo.

"Russia protects its stands and its own interests, but Kosovo is European matter and we made it clear that we are interested in timely solution to the problem because we see it as our problem. The future of the Balkan depends on Europe not on Russia," Gallach said.

Asked whether the EU will continue to seek compromise with Russia, Gallach said the EU is patient and it works with Russia for months in order to reach a solution to Kosovo issue.

"But, we must cut to the chase if no solution is reached meanwhile," Gallach told Vecernje Novosti daily.