Deli Balidemaj, an Albanian member of the Parliament of Upper Bavaria, has emphasized the importance of maintaining Germany’s military presence in Kosovo as part of NATO’s KFOR mission, describing it as a key pillar of stability for both Kosovo and the wider Western Balkans.
Balidemaj welcomed Germany’s decision to keep its troop levels unchanged, noting that the number of German soldiers stationed in Kosovo remains the same as before the security tensions and violent incidents that occurred in northern Kosovo in 2023.
“German troops remain in Kosovo in the same numbers as before the unrest of 2023. It is extremely important for both Kosovo and the Western Balkans that NATO, and especially Germany, continues its presence in Kosovo to ensure peace, stability, and support for Kosovo’s institutions,” Balidemaj stated.
His comments come amid renewed discussions about the future structure of NATO’s presence in Kosovo, following reports that some allies have considered adjustments to KFOR deployments. However, both Germany and the United Kingdom have recently reaffirmed their commitment to the mission, signaling continued international support for Kosovo’s security.
Balidemaj stressed that the presence of international forces remains an essential factor in guaranteeing security, preserving regional stability, and creating a safe environment for Kosovo’s democratic and institutional development.
Germany is one of the largest contributors to the NATO-led KFOR mission and has played a central role in maintaining peace and security in Kosovo since the end of the 1999 war. Berlin has repeatedly emphasized that stability in Kosovo remains closely linked to the security of the entire Western Balkans region.
The continued commitment of NATO allies is widely viewed as an important deterrent against potential instability and as a strong message of support for Kosovo’s sovereignty, democratic institutions, and Euro-Atlantic future.
