Russia's Presence in Macedonia 'Obviously Irritates Albanians'

The leaders of the Albanian parties of Macedonia say Russia should stop getting involved in the peaceful settlement in the country. Ali Ibrahimi, the leader of the Albanian Rebirth party, said to a correspondent of the Rosbalt news agency that, 'Russia's presence in Macedonia is unwanted'. Mr. Ibrahimi believes that Russia supports Macedonians of Slavic descent, which 'obviously irritates Albanians'.

The Albanian Rebirth party is among the most influential oppositional associations of Macedonia. Most its activists are former militants from the Albanian Liberation Army. The party is closely associated with Albanian separatists in Kosovo.

Some time last week, Macedonian parliamentarians said they would invite Russia's peacemakers to Macedonia, Skopie believing Moscow to be among its closest allies.