The commander of KFOR, Major General Ozkan Ulutash stated that the security situation in Kosovo is stable but fragile. He said that the 4600 troops within KFOR that come from 28 partner countries and NATO members are ready to respond to any kind of challenge.
Major General Ulutash did not comment on Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s request for additional troops a few months ago, but said that depending on the situation, the deployment of additional troops may be reconsidered.”NATO constantly reviews its position and remains ready to adjust it as necessary or adapt it. Through an increase of 1000 troops, NATO deployed additional reserve forces in Kosovo following the violence that occurred last year. To prevent any risk of escalation or renewed escalation of violence, we are ready to respond to potential challenges. If necessary, we can adjust our position as needed, in accordance with our UN mandate,” said Ozkan Ulutas, KFOR commander.
Regarding the warnings of some foreign intelligence agencies about rising tensions in the north of Kosovo, the KFOR commander assures that they are ready to respond to any challenge.
“We are well equipped and ready to handle any situation that may affect the security environment and we continue to operate as a third security responder, after the Kosovo Police and the EU Rule of Law mission (EULEX), respectively, with whom we are in close coordination”, emphasized Ulutas.Regarding the Serbian military bases located on the border and the claims that Serbia is training people to attack Kosovo, he told A2 CNN that efforts will continue to prevent any escalation of the situation.
“We closely monitor any development that may affect security throughout Kosovo and regional stability. We will continue our efforts to prevent any escalation and are ready to respond to any challenges that may arise, adjusting our position as necessary and continuing close cooperation with the Kosovo Police, the Serbian Armed Forces and EULEX “, declared the KFOR commander.
The KFOR commander demanded responsibility for the terrorist act in Banjska, but did not say whether they themselves had any investigation into the incident.”NATO continues to claim responsibility for the violent attacks on May 29 and September 24. Investigations into incidents like the one in Banjska involve coordination with local authorities and stakeholders. Therefore, we have asked the relevant authorities in Pristina and Belgrade to carry out the necessary legal investigations to prove the facts and bring those responsible to justice”, added Ulutas.
Major General Utulash, who also participated in the last training of the Serbian army, said that it is important to communicate with the general of the Armed Forces of Serbia to identify the early signals of any possible tension./kosovapress/
