Serbia's PM Dissolves Government

Serbian Prime Minister Vojislav Kostunica dissolved the government today, saying it had become paralyzed over disagreements on how to deal with Kosovo and EU membership. He proposed new elections for May. "We are lacking government unity,” said Kostunica, charging that his pro-Western coalition partners aren't being adamant enough about rejecting Kosovo's recent independence.

Kostunica has demanded European governments withdraw their recognition of Kosovo before Belgrade continues EU membership talks. But President Boris Tadic favors stronger ties with Europe and opposes bundling the two issues. “Such a government could not function any more,” Kostunica argued. One analyst endorsed his efforts: “This is a huge rift and it’s good the people will have a chance to decide,” he said.