KFOR confirms: Reduction of permanent presence on the main Ibar Bridge has begun

KFOR has confirmed to Kosovo Online that it has begun reducing its permanent presence on the main bridge over the Ibar River, which connects South and North Mitrovica.

KFOR stated that, in light of the improved security situation in Kosovo, the move is part of the process of optimizing the deployment of KFOR forces.

"The process will take place gradually, based on security conditions and in close coordination with all relevant stakeholders, including representatives of institutions in Kosovo and international organizations, as well as representatives of the Kosovo Police and the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX). The Chief of the General Staff of the Serbian Armed Forces, General Milan Mojsilovic, has also been regularly briefed on the process. KFOR Commander Major General Ozkan Ulutas remains in close contact with his key interlocutors in the institutions in Kosovo, international organizations, and the Serbian Armed Forces," KFOR stated.

In the remainder of its response to Kosovo Online, KFOR stressed that its personnel are well prepared to respond to all relevant developments, in accordance with the mission's longstanding United Nations mandate.

"KFOR will maintain a visible presence in both the southern and northern parts of Mitrovica, as well as in northern Kosovo, continuing to contribute to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all communities. KFOR continues to fulfil its mandate, based on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999, by contributing to maintaining a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for all people living in Kosovo. KFOR implements its mandate at all times impartially and in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX), within their respective security roles," KFOR stated at the end of its written response.

The Serb List expressed opposition today to the withdrawal or any reduction in the presence of KFOR personnel on the main Ibar Bridge and stated that it had requested an urgent meeting with KFOR Commander General Ozkan Ulutas on the matter.