Acting Minister of Defense, Ejup Maqedonci, has announced that Kosovo will be one of the host nations for the multinational military exercise “Defender Europe 25”, welcoming 12,000 troops from 19 NATO and partner countries, reports RKS News.
Maqedonci emphasized that the United States has entrusted Kosovo not only with participation but also with leading the regional command of these exercises in the Balkans.
“This is an extraordinary achievement for our country. I believe we are now at the highest point of our defense cooperation with the U.S.,” he stated on KTV.
Speaking on regional challenges, Maqedonci said that peace in the Western Balkans remains fragile, citing Serbia’s hegemonic policies and its cooperation with Russia as serious concerns. He stressed that Kosovo should be worried but not afraid.
He also confirmed that the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) continues to honor the 2013 pledge not to enter the northern municipalities without coordination with KFOR, although he admitted he does not personally agree with this restriction.
In conclusion, Maqedonci said the KSF is being strengthened to face any potential threat, while clarifying that no specific country is being targeted.
