Zagreb, Croatia — Croatian authorities have arrested an Air Force pilot and his partner on allegations of espionage, accusing them of sharing sensitive information related to peacekeeping operations in Kosovo over the past three years.
The Arrest
The pilot, identified by Croatian media as JI, and his girlfriend AM, a Serbian citizen from Mitrovica in Kosovo, were detained on the island of Vis. Prosecutors claim to have gathered sufficient evidence that the pair shared classified details about KFOR (Kosovo Force) missions, troop movements, and operations in the Serb-majority municipality of Zubin Potok between 2022 and 2025.
The pilot has denied all charges, insisting he is being framed. He described his partner as “collateral damage” in the investigation.
AM’s Situation
Initially, AM was held in a reception center in Trilj over an expulsion order but was later charged with espionage. Prosecutors allege she acted as a conduit, passing information obtained by JI to Serbian authorities in Belgrade.
Those close to her reject the accusations, saying AM is not sympathetic to the Serbian government.
Official Responses
-
The Croatian Defence Ministry confirmed that JI had passed all necessary security clearances before deployment, with colleagues describing him as a “model professional.”
-
Arsen Bauk, chairman of Croatia’s parliamentary National Security Committee, called the case a “serious security problem” requiring parliamentary review.
-
Committee member Sandra Benčić emphasized that the priority remains the safety of citizens, Croatia’s military personnel, and peacekeeping missions abroad.
Regional Tensions
The case comes amid heightened strains between Croatia and Serbia:
-
In March, Croatia, Kosovo, and Albania signed a declaration on security cooperation, which Belgrade criticized sharply. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić accused the NATO members of fueling an “arms race” in the Balkans.
-
Croatian Defence Minister Ivan Anušić responded defiantly, saying: “The time has passed when we asked Belgrade what we were going to do.”
-
In turn, Vučić has reportedly held talks with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán about a potential military agreement between Serbia and Hungary.
What Happens Next
Croatian prosecutors are continuing their investigation. The case is expected to be closely monitored by both domestic lawmakers and international partners, given its implications for NATO operations in the region.
Localnews has reached out to the Serbian Embassy in Zagreb for comment.
This is a developing story. Updates will follow as more details emerge.
The post Croatian Air Force Pilot and Partner Arrested on Espionage Charges first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
