The European Union's EULEX mission was created to ensure lasting stability in Kosovo. But it is not making much headway, particularly in the Serb-dominated north of the country. EULEX has no clear mandate because several EU countries still do not recognize Kosovo as an independent state. The smuggling of weapons and drugs is thriving in the north of the country, and tension is high, especially on the border with neighboring Serbia. Kosovans and Serbs are fighting over who should control the crossings. Clashes continue between protesters from the two sides.