Major Russian humanitarian operation in Kosovo over

Russia has completed a major humanitarian operation of assistance to the people of Kosovo who lost their housing as a result of the tragic March events, when the Albanian Muslim majority killed dozens of Serbs and destroyed hundreds of houses and Orthodox churches, said Deputy Emergencies Minister Yuri Brazhnikov. The operation began in April, when Emergencies Minister Sergei Shoigu visited the province.

"Russia has fulfilled its obligations: it has delivered 102 module houses with furniture and all other requisite equipment by rail," said Brazhnikov. "The nearly fully torched village of Svinar, which we visited today, has received 50 houses, one for each family. It will be the first Russian village in the province revived with our assistance."

A representative of the company from Abakan, who was on the Russian delegation, inspected the work of the construction workers to check that all requisite communications have been provided to each house. The delegates talked with local residents to discuss practical assistance. "Everyone is still worried by the issue of safety," said Brazhnikov.

"Our houses are temporary shelter where those who will restore the ruined economy will live," said the deputy minister. "We are building such villages to show the world and international organisations that the people can be encouraged to return to their homes... It is important that the function was attended by KFOR and UN representatives responsible for the return of refugees."