Letter: Trapped in Kosovo
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Letter: Trapped in Kosovo
Sir: Your challenging comment on the media's role in the current Balkans crisis ("The Prime Minister hits the wrong target", 11 May) reminds us all of the urgent imperative for the international community to address the humanitarian crisis facing those still inside Kosovo.
The Prime Minister is right that those most in need of protection and assistance remain trapped inside the province. But he and other political leaders must show courage and vision if a way is to be found of reaching them.
Precedents such as Operation Lifeline in Sudan, where, with the consent of both parties to the conflict, humanitarian assistance is provided to civilians, or the establishment of "safe havens" in northern Iraq in 1992 - which did not require the consent of the Baghdad government - do exist and could be considered in the current crisis.
Without action of this kind the population inside Kosovo will remain beyond reach of help. Their only option will be to attempt to flee the country as refugees with all the attendant terrors witnessed by those who have made it to the camps in Macedonia and Albania.
MIKE AARONSON
Director General
Save the Children Fund
London SE5
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments