Ulutas with Serb List: KFOR optimization is being carried out gradually, process can be reversed

KFOR Commander Major General Ozkan Ulutas told Serb List President Zlatan Elek at a meeting that the process of optimizing KFOR's deployment was launched as a result of the improved security situation in Kosovo, but that it could be reversed if relevant developments so required.

Ulutas received Elek on Tuesday at KFOR headquarters at the Film City base, at the request of the Serb List president. The meeting was also attended by the party's vice president, Igor Simic, MP Jovana Radosavljevic, and North Mitrovica Mayor Milan Radojevic.

As KFOR said, the meeting included an exchange of views on a number of issues, including the security situation in northern Kosovo and the ongoing implementation of the announced process of optimizing KFOR's deployment.

"The KFOR commander emphasized that the optimization process was launched as a result of the improved security situation in Kosovo. He reiterated that this process would be carried out gradually. It is based on conditions on the ground and can be reversed if relevant developments that could affect long-term security in Kosovo and regional stability so require. He added that KFOR would remain fully equipped and adequately deployed to be able to respond to all relevant developments, in accordance with its longstanding United Nations mandate," the statement said.

Ulutas emphasized that KFOR continues to have the role of first responder when it comes to the security of Visoki Decani Monastery and remains committed to its protection, while the gradual reduction of KFOR's presence on the main bridge over the Ibar is still in its initial phase.

"Once this process is completed, KFOR will maintain a strong presence in North Mitrovica and northern Kosovo, in the interests of all communities," the statement said.

According to the statement, KFOR continues to fulfill its mandate based on UN Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999, contributing to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all people living in Kosovo, as well as freedom of movement.

The statement added that, in carrying out this mandate, KFOR acts impartially and in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and the EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX), within their respective roles in responding to security incidents.

KFOR said yesterday that it had begun reducing its permanent presence on the main bridge over the Ibar, which connects South and North Mitrovica, citing the improved security situation as the reason for the decision.

Kosovo Online examined the question of why the Carabinieri are withdrawing from the main bridge over the Ibar at this particular moment in an analysis titled "The Ibar Bridge and Visoki Decani in KFOR's new 'security architecture' - Why are Serbs concerned?"