United Kingdom to support KFOR for at least three more years

The British Armed Forces will continue to support the NATO-led peacekeeping mission in Kosovo for at least another three years, the Government of the United Kingdom announced.

In a statement published on the UK government’s website, it is noted that the United Kingdom is one of the key contributors to NATO forces in Kosovo (KFOR), which launched its mission in 1999 under a United Nations mandate to ensure peace and stability following the conflicts of the 1990s.

“This commitment focuses on reserve forces consisting of hundreds of British soldiers who can be rapidly deployed to Kosovo if needed. The last major deployment took place in 2023, following a violent attack on police officers in northern Kosovo,” the statement said.

It is emphasized that the extension of the UK’s support to KFOR until at least December 2028 is part of the government’s ‘NATO First’ approach, as outlined in the Strategic Defence Review, and also part of the broader policy of strengthening security in the Western Balkans.

The announcement comes as Prime Minister Keir Starmer hosts the Western Balkans Leaders’ Summit in London, focused on enhancing cooperation in addressing the shared challenge of irregular migration.

On this occasion, Starmer stated that the United Kingdom’s commitment to peace and security in the Western Balkans is unwavering.

“By extending our support to NATO forces in Kosovo, we reaffirm our role as a leading ally within NATO and remain true to our values of stability and democracy. Cooperation with our partners in the Western Balkans is vital—not only for the region’s stability but also for our security at home,” Starmer said, according to the statement.

The British Government also emphasized that Kosovo is an important bilateral partner of the United Kingdom, noting that the UK was the first to recognize Kosovo’s independence in 2008.

“The international NATO peacekeeping mission, supported by over 30 countries, was established following NATO’s 78-day air campaign in 1999 against the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, aimed at preventing a humanitarian catastrophe in Kosovo,” the statement recalled.

Meanwhile, the UK Ministry of Defence announced preparations for a new training program for Western Balkan countries, set to begin early next year.

“The goal of the course is to strengthen understanding among defense and security institutions on issues related to the protection of civilians, including the promotion of the role of women in the defense sector. This type of training is considered one of the most effective ways to prevent conflict and to foster a regional network of experts who can cooperate in the future. The United Kingdom will invite Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia to participate,” the statement highlighted.

Minister for the Armed Forces Alistair Carns stated that British troops have carried out hundreds of missions within KFOR over the decades.

“Extending this commitment will contribute to greater security in Kosovo and the Western Balkans. Maintaining peace is a key part of our dedication to keeping Britain safe at home and strong abroad. I want to thank the hundreds of British soldiers who remain ready to serve to ensure the safety of both Britain and Europe,” he said.

The UK Ministry of Defence further emphasized that British forces have worked to improve KFOR’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities, significantly increasing commanders’ situational awareness and ensuring that the mission can maintain a safe environment for all communities.