Poland recognizes Kosovo

BELGRADE, Serbia, Feb. 27 (UPI) -- Poland became the 19th country Tuesday to recognize Kosovo since it declared independence from Serbia more than a week ago.

The Serbian government said it would take the same steps it has with other countries that have recognized the breakaway region, B92 Radio in Belgrade reported. Serbia has withdrawn its ambassadors from the United States and a number of Western European countries.

Polish President Lech Kaczynski opposed recognition, saying it is a "dangerous precedent."

Serbia maintains the unilateral declaration of independence violates international law.

Last week, protesters in Belgrade marched on the embassies of some of the countries that had recognized Kosovo. They entered parts of the U.S. embassy, starting fires that killed one demonstrator.