KFOR: It is not true that the technical inspection of the bridge on the Ibar was conducted in coordination with us

It is not true that the ongoing technical inspection of the bridge over the Ibar River in Mitrovica was coordinated with the NATO-led KFOR mission. KFOR was in no way involved in this activity, confirmed a KFOR spokesperson in a written response to Kosovo Online.

Namely, the Deputy Minister for Infrastructure in the Kosovan government, Hisen Durmishi, stated that the process of examining the infrastructural stability of the bridge over the Ibar River was concluding today and that the testing was done in coordination with KFOR.

In response to whether these claims are true, the KFOR spokesperson said:

"We are aware of reports that the ongoing technical inspection of the bridge over the Ibar River in Mitrovica was coordinated with the NATO-led KFOR mission. This is not true. KFOR was not involved in this activity in any way. Our statement from August 6, 2024, was clear – KFOR Commander, Major General Özkan Ulutaş, was informed by the Director of Kosovo Police about the first inspection on that day, a few hours before it began," said the KFOR spokesperson.

Let us recall that in a statement on August 6, KFOR emphasized that "all decisions regarding the opening of the main bridge over the Ibar River must be made within the framework of the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue mediated by the EU."

"KFOR units maintain a constant, fixed presence on the bridge and continue to conduct regular patrols in the surrounding areas to ensure stability and security for the benefit of all local communities. We will not hesitate to address any developments that may affect the security environment and regional stability, in full respect of our UN mandate. KFOR's stance has always been clear and consistent. All decisions regarding the opening of the main bridge over the Ibar River must be made within the framework of the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue mediated by the EU," KFOR stated.

The Multinational Operational Reserve Battalion conducts daily patrols

Throughout the day, there has been an increased presence of KFOR personnel in Leposavic and Zvecan.

"The Multinational Operational Reserve Battalion conducts daily patrols in the municipalities of Leposavic and Zvecan. This is part of KFOR’s regular activities to ensure a safe and secure environment for all communities living in Kosovo. We maintain a flexible and visible presence, which allows us to address any security scenarios. We remain focused on carrying out our mandate – based on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 from 1999 – to contribute to a safe, secure environment and the freedom of movement for the benefit of all people and communities living in Kosovo, at all times and impartially. Our actions always aim to prevent any escalation of tensions and maintain stability and security in Kosovo. KFOR acts as the third security responder, in close coordination with all our colleagues, including the Kosovo Police and the EU Rule of Law Mission (EULEX), who are the first and second security responders, respectively," said the KFOR spokesperson.