The North Atlantic Council met on Tuesday, September 15, in KFOR format, together with partner countries contributing troops to the mission, to receive an update from KFOR Commander Major General Özkan Ulutaş.
In his latest briefing to the Council, delivered via video link, Ulutaş provided an update on KFOR’s ongoing efforts to help maintain a safe and secure environment for all people living in Kosovo and to ensure freedom of movement.
The meeting took place one day before the expected Hague verdict in the trial of former Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA) leaders.
NATO allies and troop-contributing partners also discussed the ongoing optimization of KFOR’s presence and structure, following the continued improvement of the security situation in Kosovo.
According to NATO, the process is intended to ensure that the mission remains appropriately configured to fulfill its mandate. It is based on conditions on the ground, is being implemented gradually, and remains fully reversible should security developments make it necessary.
“KFOR will remain appropriately equipped, trained and organized to implement its long-term UN mandate and will retain the necessary capabilities, readiness and flexibility to respond to a range of security scenarios,” NATO said in a statement.
The Alliance also reaffirmed the strategic importance of the Western Balkans and its commitment to long-term security in Kosovo and regional stability.
The reaffirmation comes as Kosovo prepares for September 16, when the Hague verdict in the case against former KLA leaders is expected, a moment likely to draw significant public attention across Kosovo.
