Ulutaş: Following the optimization, KFOR troops will return to Kosovo if needed

KFOR Commander Özkan Ulutaş stated that NATO's decision to optimize the number of troops in the Kosovo mission was based on the assessment that the security situation has been steadily improving in recent years and that troops can be redeployed to Kosovo should the need arise. He also emphasized that KFOR's support to the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) remains focused on its original civil protection mandate.

"The recent announcement that NATO will continue to optimize KFOR's presence in Kosovo is based on our collective assessment that the security situation in Kosovo has been steadily improving over the past several years. While the security situation in Kosovo remains generally stable, we will ensure that our mission remains fit for purpose," Ulutaş said in an interview with Klan Kosova.

He pointed out that any changes to KFOR's troop levels would be carefully calibrated and implemented gradually, based on conditions on the ground, and would be reversible should any significant security developments occur that could affect local security and regional stability.

Ulutaş stressed that KFOR would continue to be equipped and deployed throughout Kosovo to maintain its contribution to a safe and secure environment for all people living in Kosovo.

He noted that KFOR already maintains long-standing, close and effective coordination with the Kosovo Police and the EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX), while support to the KSF remains focused on its original civil protection mandate.

"This is mainly delivered through a dedicated and complementary NATO-led structure called the NATO Advisory and Liaison Team, which is based at KFOR Headquarters in Camp Film City," the KFOR commander said, adding that this cooperation would continue uninterrupted.

In his interview with Klan Kosova, Ulutaş said that the United States remains one of the key contributors to the KFOR mission in Kosovo.

"The United States remains a key contributor to KFOR and is fully committed to continuing its contribution to lasting security throughout Kosovo and stability across the Western Balkans. I, together with all KFOR personnel under my command, remain fully committed to our mission," Ulutaş said.

He also stated that KFOR maintains regular communication with the Serbian Armed Forces.

"I would like to stress that KFOR maintains regular and transparent communication with the Serbian Armed Forces at all levels. I will soon be returning to Belgrade, where I will meet with the Chief of the General Staff of the Serbian Armed Forces, General Mojsilovic. This will be my fifth meeting with him during my tenure. I greatly value the cooperation we have developed with General Mojsilovic over the years. He has contributed in many different ways by strengthening transparency, mutual trust, and supporting the maintenance of regional stability," Ulutaş said.

He added that he expects Serbia's cooperation regarding the events in Banjska in 2023.

"As the NATO Secretary General and other officials have made clear, we expect Serbia's support in ensuring accountability for the unjustified attacks carried out in Kosovo in 2023," Ulutaş said.