PRISHTINA, April 22 /ATA/ – Major General Ozkan Ulutash said Wednesday that the security situation in Kosovo is stable, though the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) maintains a high level of vigilance.
Reflecting on his first term leading KFOR, Ulutash recalled the serious security incidents in northern Kosovo in 2023 and the subsequent increase in KFOR presence.
“We have not seen a repeat of that level of violence, but we remain vigilant and prepared. KFOR monitors the situation nationwide to ensure safety and freedom of movement in line with UN Security Council Resolution 1244,” he said.
He noted that northern Kosovo is calm but not entirely stable, emphasizing that long-term stability is political.
“KFOR provides a security framework to allow political dialogue to move forward. Stability in Kosovo and the region depends on whether the parties choose diplomacy over violence,” he added.
Ulutash stressed that KFOR continues to implement its UN mandate impartially, ensuring safety for all communities, including Serbs.
He highlighted NATO’s support for the EU-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Prishtina as essential for lasting stability.
Regarding police bases and observation posts in the north, Ulutash said KFOR maintains close coordination with Kosovo Police, EULEX, and Serbian security forces to prevent misunderstandings and respond swiftly to any threats.
He also noted KFOR’s continuous presence at the UNESCO-listed Deçan Monastery and flexible deployments across Kosovo, ensuring protection for all communities while remaining ready to adjust as needed.
/KosovaPress/u.sh/
