On Feb. 18, 2008 the U.S. recognized this new Balkan state
... Russia's 
special envoy to the Balkans, was quoted by the Interfax news... [DOC] [TLE] U.S. recognizes Kosovo - Washington Times [PAR] The United States formally recognized Kosovo as an independent nation today, 
saying ... to a request from the Balkan state for diplomatic ties between Pristina 
and Washington.