Kosovo will host the largest international military exercise ever held on its territory. Acting Minister of Defense, Ejup Maqedonci, described this as clear evidence of Kosovo’s growing role as a trusted partner for strategic allies. “Defender Europe 2025” will take place from May 26 to June 9, with the participation of around 25,000 troops from 29 NATO allied and partner countries.
Starting Monday, Kosovo will be one of 18 host countries for the “Defender Europe 2025” military exercise, considered the largest multinational drill ever conducted in the country.
Led by the U.S. Army Europe and Africa Command, this operation is expected to involve about 25,000 troops from 29 NATO allies and partner nations.
The Kosovo Security Force (KSF) will also take part, working alongside participating militaries in exercises simulating defensive, offensive, and stability operations.
According to Acting Defense Minister Ejup Maqedonci, for the first time, the U.S. Army’s 28th Infantry Division Command will be stationed in Kosovo, leading operations across the Balkan region during the exercise.
He emphasized that this is a clear sign of Kosovo’s increasing credibility with strategic partners:
“This is an extraordinary achievement for our country and shows the trust the United States has in our government, institutions, and especially the professionalism of our military. Our republic is being seen as a credible location to host one of the largest military activities the U.S. conducts in Europe. Through this exercise, KSF units not only develop combat capabilities but also strengthen interoperability with the military forces of the U.S. and partner countries,” said Maqedonci.
He added that participation in “Defender Europe 2025” is not just a military drill but also an opportunity to test, in the field, the equipment and weapons Kosovo has purchased and continues to purchase for its armed forces.
Regarding the impact of this event on Kosovo’s integration into Euro-Atlantic structures, Maqedonci stated that such exercises are a clear indicator of the country’s closeness to NATO:
“Exercises like Defender Europe 25 help prepare the KSF to enhance its interoperability with NATO countries’ militaries. Hosting such a high-level, complex operation requires strong commitment and professionalism from both the Ministry of Defense and the Kosovo Security Force. This reflects Kosovo’s alignment with NATO and the trust NATO states have in our country’s ability to contribute to the alliance in the future,” he said.
Preparations on the ground are currently in their final phase.
According to the Ministry of Defense, camps are being built to host partner units, and troop movements toward training zones in Babaj i Bokës and at Gjakova Airport are being planned.
The exercise will last until June 9.
“Defender Europe 2025” is the largest U.S.-led multinational military drill in Europe.
