Kosovo Specialist Chambers Sentences Thaci to 25 Years for War Crimes

The Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague sentenced former President Hashim Thaci to 25 years in prison on September 16, 2026, after convicting him of four war crimes counts including murder, torture, cruel treatment, and arbitrary detention. Presiding Judge Charles Smith found Thaci criminally responsible for acts committed by KLA forces during the 1998-1999 conflict.

The court established Thaci's responsibility for the murder of 96 individuals, torture of 303, cruel treatment of 49, and arbitrary detention of 385 people. Judges determined victims were targeted as perceived opponents of KLA political and military goals, including Kosovo Albanians linked to rival forces, alleged Serbian collaborators, and ethnic minorities. Thaci was acquitted of six crimes against humanity charges due to insufficient evidence of a widespread or systematic attack.

“Thaci actively participated in and encouraged crimes, including by promoting individuals involved in crimes, and showed a ruthless ability to remove and eliminate political impediments.”

As a member of the KLA General Staff and head of its Political Directorate, Thaci was found to be a key figure in formulating and implementing the common criminal purpose, including establishing detention facilities and identifying perceived opponents. Judge Smith stated Thaci actively participated in and encouraged crimes, showing a "ruthless ability to remove and eliminate political impediments."

The verdict sparked immediate protests. In Pristina, thousands gathered outside the EULEX compound, throwing stones and fireworks at police. Demonstrations also occurred in The Hague, where supporters clashed with Dutch riot police, resulting in two detentions. Kosovo Foreign Minister Glauk Konjufca condemned the ruling as "a terrible judgment for Kosovo, for our people and for our liberation war."

Three other former KLA leaders received sentences alongside Thaci: Jakup Krasniqi received 25 years, Kadri Veseli 18 years, and Rexhep Selimi 13 years. Both Thaci and prosecutors, who had sought a stricter sentence, have the right to appeal the first-instance verdict.