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Entry: Kosovo on the Thames Link: http://www.takimag.com/blogs/article/kosovo_on_the_thames#17452 Post contents: The Vatican will have a tough time on the Kosovo issue. It is wedded, pretty thoroughly, to modern democratic notions of self-determination, and historically sympathetic to secessions (because of its teaching of subsidiarity). On the other hand, the Russian state is helping ecumenical relations, which are MUCH more important than politics. There is no doubt a battle in the curia even now between those who want above all to keep good relations with the NATO bloc, and those who care more about the principle of Christian unity. Give the Holy See credit--it was one of the few powers to denounce the FIRST Gulf War as well as the second. And Pope Benedict is undeceived about Islamic intentions in Europe. Expect a guarded response that makes no one happy, but also makes no enemies. Most of the time, the Vatican thinks in centuries. That said, this week I'm going to go to the Garibaldi monument on the Janiculum and snicker. Sent at: 2009 01 08