NATO has said that any decision on the possible reopening of the main bridge in Mitrovica to vehicle traffic must take into account the needs and concerns of all local communities.
The Alliance said the gradual transition of KFOR’s permanent presence at the bridge will be based on security conditions and will remain reversible if developments on the ground require a change in approach.
NATO officials said the adjustment of KFOR’s presence is being carried out in response to improvements in Kosovo’s security situation and forms part of the Alliance’s broader effort to optimize the positioning of its mission in Kosovo.
The process is being conducted with full transparency toward all relevant actors, NATO said.
The Alliance also confirmed that NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte remains in regular contact with Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić.
KFOR continues to monitor developments on the ground and remains fully focused on carrying out its daily mandate, NATO officials said.
“KFOR does not have an enforcement mandate. It continues to cooperate closely with security organizations in Kosovo, including the Kosovo Police, in accordance with the highest operational standards and the principle of fair and equal treatment of all communities,” NATO’s Press Office said.
The Alliance added that KFOR maintains a strong and visible presence in northern Kosovo for the benefit of all communities, including the Kosovo Serb community.
The future of the main bridge over the Iber River remains politically sensitive, with Prishtina supporting its eventual reopening to vehicle traffic and Belgrade opposing such a move, arguing that it could threaten the security of Kosovo Serbs.
NATO’s position indicates that any change to the bridge’s current status will remain closely linked to security assessments and the interests of the communities living in the area.
