International Saber-rattling heats up

Over the last few weeks the tensions between Serbia and Kosovo have been ratcheting up.  Today the US State Department responded to hints from Belgrade that it might use force if Kosovo declares its independence.  Turkish Weekly (quoting VOA news)reports:

 The State Department said Thursday it is seeking clarification from Belgrade after a Serbian official said that country might use force to prevent independence for Kosovo. Talks on Kosovo resume later this month in New York, with a December deadline set by the United Nations looming. VOA's David Gollust reports from the State Department.

The State Department is criticizing as "inflammatory and unfortunate" a remark by Serbia's top official for Kosovo that Belgrade might respond militarily to an independence move by the U.N.-administered Serbian province.

Local papers are also reporting that Albania has promised aid in the event of a Serbian military intervention.  NATO spokesmen are also quoted as saying Serbian military and police will not be allowed access to Kosovo territory.