Kosovo and Serbia are still struggling to normalize their relations.
There are constant reports that Serbia is preparing for a new terrorist attack and also buying weapons from everywhere.
Security expert Dritan Goxhaj states that Serbia is purchasing weapons everywhere, while Kosovo is restricted due to KFOR, as it must first request permission for arms.
In a conversation with the newspaper “Bota sot,” Goxhaj says it is time for KFOR to remove this obstacle for Kosovo.
“Yes, I stand by what I have said: Kosovo faces an obstacle for armament since it needs permission from KFOR for every weapon it acquires. I believe it is time for KFOR to remove this obstacle for Kosovo and allow it to acquire all the necessary armament for self-defense. And KFOR can easily oversee this armament,” says Goxhaj.
He mentions that Kosovo initially needs anti-aircraft defense systems, as well as some missile systems.
“I think it needs anti-aircraft defense systems starting from 12.7mm calibers up to heavy calibers to protect against drones and helicopters. Additionally, it needs a short-range missile system, no more than 70-120 km, which, if positioned in the center of Kosovo, could create a 360-degree defense for the entire territory of Kosovo.
Secondly, it needs ground artillery systems starting from 60mm mortars to 120mm mortars, as well as light and medium artillery gun batteries,” declares the expert.
Kosovo also requires long-barreled firearms (automatic rifles)
“But above all, it needs long-barreled firearms (automatic rifles) in large quantities to serve as a reserve in case of a potential attack from Serbia. In my opinion, at least a quantity of up to 50,000 such weapons, accompanied by a sufficient amount of ammunition to withstand at least a year-long conflict. This ammunition could also be produced in Kosovo or in cooperation with Albania in Albania. There are many types of armament Kosovo will need, but these that I listed are essential for preserving sovereignty,” adds Goxhaj.
