Violence erupts in Kosovo following independence declaration from Serbia

[Published: Sunday 17, February 2008 - 19:42]

There has been violence on the streets of northern Kosovo following the new state's declaration of independence from Serbia earlier today.

An explosion rocked a UN courthouse in the Serb-controlled region causing slight damage, however no injuries were reported.

The blast occurred after a hand grenade, was hurled at the building.

Meanwhile, in the Serbian capital of Belgrade, the US embassy has been pelted with stones, and an estimated two thousand demonstrators have clashed with riot police.

The United States and most European Union members are expected to recognise the new state, but Serbia and Russia are fiercely opposed to it.