Grief-stricken Macedonian Slavs today buried soldiers killed by rebels in an attack that sparked violent retaliation against ethnic Albanians in this southern city.
A 16-gun salute rang out in pouring rain as the white coffin of Mr Blagojce Siljanov, 32, was lowered into the ground. His wife and five-year-old son wailed at the graveside.
"He died a hero for Macedonia," a military colleague proclaimed. Mr Siljanov's nickname ‘dwarf’ had been spray-painted on ethnic Albanian houses burnt down by rioting Slav mobs.
Two more soldiers from Slav-dominated Bitola were among the five fatalities and were also laid to rest today.
In Brussels, NATO defence ministers condemned Tuesday's deadly ambushes by ethnic Albanian rebels. NATO Secretary-General Mr George Robertson urged the rebels to disarm.
"I urge the men of violence to lay down their arms and take part in normal political processes," Mr Robertson said.
The deaths of the five men have brought Macedonia to a new level of crisis, with ethnic tension worsening and little progress among politicians in an uneasy all-party coalition in agreeing reforms meant to address ethnic Albanian grievances.
The reforms are supposed to undercut support for the rebellion, which began in February.
Up to 3,000 people bent on vengeance for the death of the soldiers rampaged through Bitola, Macedonia's second city yesterday, attacking ethnic Albanian businesses and homes.
"Unfortunately we have indications that the riots might continue tonight," said police spokesman Mr Stevo Pendarovski.