The American commander of NATO’s Regional Command East, Colonel Peter Helzer, says the situation in northern Kosovo is currently calm but fragile. In an interview with TËVË1, Helzer emphasized that the lack of a final resolution between Kosovo and Serbia keeps the risk of escalation ever-present.
“It is a region prone to sudden and possible escalations due to unresolved issues and numerous challenges, often amplified by inflammatory rhetoric and disinformation,” Helzer stated.
KFOR has increased its presence along the Kosovo-Serbia border:
NATO deployed up to 1,000 additional troops in 2024.
KFOR now consists of over 4,700 troops from 33 countries, including NATO allies and partners.
Helzer emphasized KFOR’s readiness to respond flexibly and effectively to any security threat.
He also condemned recent terrorist attacks, specifically:
The November 2024 attack on the Ibër-Lepenc canal.
The 2023 violence in Banjska and Zvečan.
“KFOR immediately responded in all cases, in accordance with our UN mandate. What truly matters is that our soldiers remain vigilant and well-trained,” he said.
While Kosovo has been operating with a caretaker government and an unconstituted parliament for several months, Helzer said this has not had a direct impact on the security situation.
“We remain fully focused on our mission and, like everyone else, hope for a successful political outcome for the benefit of all communities in Kosovo.”
Finally, Helzer stressed that coordination between KFOR, the Kosovo Police, and EULEX is essential to addressing current and future security challenges.
