Three U.S. congressmen – Keith Self, Ritchie Torres, and Mike Lawler – have introduced a resolution in the United States Congress supporting Kosovo’s membership in NATO.

Filed on April 30 with bipartisan support, the resolution highlights Kosovo’s democratic governance, civilian control of its security forces, and multiethnic coexistence as key arguments for joining the alliance.

It also warns that amid ongoing destabilizing efforts in the region, Kosovo’s inclusion in NATO would serve as a counterbalance to deter hostile influence and prevent renewed tensions in the Balkans.

Kosovo has aimed for NATO membership since declaring independence in 2008, but the process requires unanimous approval, while four member states still do not recognize it.

Congressman Self urged the U.S. to encourage Greece, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain to recognize Kosovo.

Security analyst Ivana Stradner called the move a “strong political signal” bringing Kosovo closer to NATO.