The Republic of Kosovo will be among the 18 host countries for the largest military exercise led by the United States, with 25,000 soldiers from 29 NATO countries participating. This exercise, called Defender Europe 2025, will take place from May 26 to June 6. The details were shared in an interview with RTK by the Minister of Defense Ejup Maqedonci.
The Babaj i Bokës mountains will once again be used for training by the soldiers of the Kosovo Security Force (FSK). In addition to Kosovo’s forces, military personnel from Albania, Croatia, and North Macedonia will also participate in these exercises.
Minister Ejup Maqedonci provided more details for RTK:
“Our country, as both a host and participant with around 1,000 troops in various locations across the Western Balkans, stands out because this year Kosovo has been selected by the U.S. Army as the location where the 28th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army will be deployed,” he said.
The deployment of the U.S. Army division at Gjakova Airport, now under the control of the Kosovo Security Force, is of significant importance for Kosovo. This move highlights the professionalization of the country’s military forces.
“This division, which will be based at Gjakova Airport, will lead all operations and exercises conducted in the Balkans, including in Croatia, Albania, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria,” Maqedonci added.
During these exercises, the FSK will carry out offensive, defensive, and stability operations. Maqedonci also discussed the signing of a framework agreement between Kosovo and the U.S. in the field of defense, which is expected to take place in June. This agreement will cover the period from 2025 to 2030 and aims to enhance interoperability between the two armies, as well as promote joint ventures in the defense industry.
“This agreement will open opportunities for joint investments and collaboration with the U.S. in the defense industry,” Maqedonci noted.
The acting minister emphasized that no agreement made by Kosovo with any country aims to threaten neighboring countries or other actors, but rather to build a military capability capable of protecting the country’s territory and citizens.
