KFOR, the NATO-led peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, has confirmed that it has begun a gradual transition of its permanent presence from the main bridge over the Iber River in Mitrovica, allowing Kosovo Police personnel to remain at the site.
In a response, KFOR said the decision was made in accordance with the improving security situation in Kosovo and forms part of a broader process to optimize KFOR’s deployment.
The mission stressed that the transition will be gradual and conditions-based, with close coordination among all relevant actors, including Kosovo institutions, international organizations, the Kosovo Police and EULEX.
KFOR also said that Serbia’s Chief of Defence, General Milan Mojsilović, has been regularly informed about the developments, while KFOR Commander Major General Özkan Ulutaş remains in close contact with key counterparts in Kosovo’s institutions, international organizations and the Serbian Armed Forces.
The NATO mission emphasized that its personnel remain well positioned to respond to any relevant development, in accordance with KFOR’s UN-based mandate.
“KFOR will maintain a visible presence in both South and North Mitrovica, as well as throughout northern Kosovo,” the mission said, stressing its continued role in maintaining a safe and secure environment for all communities.
KFOR also reiterated that it continues to operate under UN Security Council Resolution 1244, contributing to a peaceful and secure environment and freedom of movement throughout Kosovo, while coordinating closely with the Kosovo Police and EULEX within their respective security roles.
Earlier in the day, KFOR also announced that it had begun integrating Kosovo Police personnel into KFOR’s security architecture at the Deçan Monastery.
The latest developments signal a gradual adjustment of KFOR’s deployment in Kosovo as the security situation evolves, while NATO continues to maintain a visible presence and readiness to respond if necessary.
