NATO’s new Secretary General, Mark Rutte, stated on Wednesday that the security situation in the Western Balkans remains fragile, particularly in Kosovo and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“The situation in the Western Balkans remains concerning, with threats of division in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the fragile security situation in Kosovo, and limited progress in the EU-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina,” Rutte told reporters ahead of the NATO Defense Ministers’ meeting.
Security in Kosovo has been tense since last year, especially after an attack by a group of Serbs on Kosovo Police in the north, resulting in the death of one officer and three attackers. Recently, NATO deployed additional troops to Kosovo and North Macedonia, signaling NATO’s strong commitment to peace and stability in the region.
Rutte reiterated NATO’s dedication to its mission in Kosovo, KFOR, which has over 4,400 troops. “For over two decades, KFOR has maintained a peaceful and secure environment for all people in Kosovo, ensuring freedom of movement. NATO’s commitment to KFOR remains strong today,” Rutte emphasized.
NATO increased its presence in Kosovo during 2023, following rising tensions in the Serb-majority north. KFOR serves as the third security responder in Kosovo, after the Kosovo Police and the EU’s rule of law mission, EULEX.
Rutte also addressed Russia’s efforts to destabilize the region through disinformation campaigns. “Russia is trying to undermine democracy in the region with hybrid and cyber threats, including disinformation, exploiting internal sensitivities to create divisions,” he added.
This marks Rutte’s first North Atlantic Council meeting at the level of Defense Ministers since taking over as NATO Secretary General two weeks ago, succeeding Jens Stoltenberg.
