NATO has responded to Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić’s latest appeal over the situation in northern Kosovo, stressing that KFOR’s gradual adjustment of its permanent presence at the main bridge in Mitrovica is based on the improved security environment.
Vučić said on August 20 that he had written to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, urging him to stop what he described as the “persecution and arrest of Serbs,” the demolition of houses and the planned opening of the main bridge over the Ibër River to vehicle traffic.
However, a NATO official said Rutte remains in regular contact with Vučić and explained that KFOR’s repositioning is part of a gradual optimization of its deployment.
The process is being carried out under the leadership of KFOR Commander Major General Özkan Ulutaş and, according to NATO, is transparent, conditions-based and reversible if security developments require it.
NATO also emphasized that the process is being closely coordinated with Kosovo institutions, international organizations, the Kosovo Police and EULEX. Local actors, including representatives of the Serb List, have also been regularly informed.
Ulutaş met with representatives of the Serb List on August 11 at their request, while NATO says the KFOR commander continues to maintain contact with key counterparts across Kosovo and with representatives of the Serbian Armed Forces.
Despite Vučić’s repeated warnings over the bridge, NATO says KFOR will continue maintaining a visible presence in both northern and southern Mitrovica and throughout northern Kosovo.
The alliance stressed that its priority remains maintaining a safe and stable environment and freedom of movement for all communities.
Regarding the possible reopening of the bridge to vehicle traffic, NATO said any decision must take into account the needs of all local communities, rather than being framed solely around one side’s political narrative.
KFOR also reiterated that it does not have a law-enforcement mandate. Its role is to provide security under its mandate based on UN Security Council Resolution 1244 and to cooperate with Kosovo’s security institutions when necessary.
The message from NATO is therefore clear: its military posture is being adjusted according to security conditions, not political pressure, while its presence in northern Kosovo remains focused on preventing instability and protecting all communities.
