I think Kosovo irritated Russians, but their stance on Georgia is a separate issue. Putin was pissed at them regardless of Kosovo/Serbia. They are saying: we can do it and nothing you, western paper tiger, can do about it.
Speaking about Balkans. Its quite complicated. My instinct of reflexively supporting Serbs (well, mostly) was challenged lately. See what Michael Totten writes about his visit to Balkans and Kosovo specifically. He is a journalist that earned my respect with his reportages from Lebanon and Iraq. He is very much not a MSM run of the mill guy. But see for yourself:
http://www.michaeltotten.com/
Totyten's report seems only to support my attitude (support to the Georgians). Kollik's (sp?) included report only more so.
I think you suggest that you feel or felt similarly - so how did it challenge your instincts?