NATO: KFOR remains ready for any scenario in Kosovo

The North Atlantic Council met today, September 15, 2026, in the KFOR format, together with partner countries contributing troops, to discuss with KFOR Commander, Turkish Major General Ozkan Ulutash.

In his latest briefing to the Council, Ulutash gave an update on KFOR’s continued commitment to maintaining a safe and calm environment for all people living in Kosovo, as well as ensuring freedom of movement.

NATO announced that KFOR exercises its mission under UN Security Council Resolution 1244, in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX), in line with their respective roles in responding to security issues.

Part of the discussion was also devoted to the process of optimizing KFOR’s presence, which comes after the continued improvement of the security situation in Kosovo.

According to NATO, this process aims to keep the mission fit for security needs.

“The optimization process is based on conditions on the ground, is being implemented gradually and will be fully reversible, should relevant security developments require it,” the statement said.

The Alliance emphasized that KFOR will continue to have appropriate personnel, equipment, training and organization to implement its long-term UN mandate.

NATO also underlined the strategic importance of the Western Balkans and reiterated its commitment to sustainable security in Kosovo and regional stability.

“NATO’s commitment to supporting long-term security in Kosovo and regional stability is unwavering,” NATO emphasized.

The Alliance said it continues to strongly support the EU-mediated dialogue for normalizing relations between Belgrade and Pristina.

“The EU-mediated dialogue remains the framework for resolving open issues, respecting the rights of all communities,” the statement added.

Major General Ozkan Ulutash is expected to complete his second term at the head of KFOR in mid-October. He will be succeeded by Italian Major General Roberto Vergori. /Telegrafi/