NATO warns of troop reduction in Kosovo

NATO has announced a reduction in the number of troops in Kosovo, arguing that the security situation in the country is continuously improving.

The decision to reduce KFOR troops comes following a comprehensive review and an intelligence-based assessment of the security situation.

"While security in Kosovo remains generally stable, NATO will optimize KFOR's presence in Kosovo and will gradually adjust its current force level over the coming year," reads a communiqué from the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE).

The communiqué recalls that the number of KFOR troops has been continuously adjusted in line with conditions on the ground. However, following the violence in northern Kosovo in 2023, this number was increased by approximately 1,000 additional troops.

"With the security situation now stabilized, KFOR's presence can be adjusted accordingly, while continuing to effectively guarantee a safe environment for all people and communities living in Kosovo, as well as freedom of movement, at all times and in an impartial manner, in accordance with the long-standing UN mandate based on Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999, and in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX), in their respective roles as security responders," the communiqué states.

United States Air Force General Alexus G. Grynkewich, Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), has confirmed NATO's commitment to security and stability in Kosovo.

"It is precisely this commitment that has led to increased stability, as security institutions and organizations in Kosovo have become more capable. Current conditions provide an opportunity to further optimize the size and presence of KFOR," he stated.

General Grynkewich also reiterated NATO's strong commitment to the Western Balkans, a region of strategic importance to the Alliance, whose security is directly linked to the security of the Euro-Atlantic area. He added that NATO will not allow any security vacuum to be created in the region./rtk