Serbians block roads in Kosovo in protest over license plate restrictions

Protesters have blocked roads in northern Kosovo after authorities stopped cars with Serbian plates from entering the country.

Police in Jarinje, Kosovo are forcing drivers from Serbia to remove or hide license plates and use temporary registration details that are valid for 60 days and cost €5 (£4.30).

Serbia, which lost control of Kosovo in 1999, does not recognise Kosovo and has stopped cars with Kosovo license plates from entering the country.

Almost 50,000 Serbs who live in the north of Kosovo and share a border with Serbia, refuse to recognise Pristina's authorities and as restrictions came into force on Monday, cars and trucks blocked roads in protest.

Police in Kosovo deployed riot gear and armoured vehicles as the blockades built up and Kosovo's Prime Minister, Albin Kurti, said the move was not taken to harm drivers but was a retaliation measure against Belgrade.

"Today there is nothing illegal or discriminatory," Mr Kurti said in parliament.

"Just as yesterday, today and tomorrow, Serb citizens will move freely and safely."

Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said the situation is very "serious and difficult".

"When you are dealing with people who are not responsible, it is difficult to find a solution," Mr Vucic said.

The two countries began talks in 2013, mediated by the European Union, to resolve the issues, but little progress has been made.

Kosovo is recognised by around 110 countries, including the United States, Britain and most western countries, but Russia, Serbia's traditional ally, does not recognise it.