EUFOR Commander Anton Wessely addressed a ceremony today marking the achievement of EUFOR’s initial operational capacity at the Butmir base in Sarajevo.
The ceremony marked the successful completion of two weeks of intensive preparations and training, after which these forces are operationally ready to support EUFOR’s security partners in maintaining a safe and stable environment for all citizens.
Wessely said he had activated EUFOR reserve forces, not to worsen the situation, but as a precaution.
“EUFOR estimates that there is currently no threat to a secure and stable environment that would require EUFOR’s involvement. As a prudent precautionary measure, in light of the deteriorating international security situation, it was decided to activate these reserve forces in order to achieved readiness for all unforeseen situations, ”says Wessely.
He added that he believes that the deployment of reserve forces will be an additional means to improve and strengthen the partnership of EUFOR with the institutions and citizens of BiH.
“I believe that my decision was out of obligation as a soldier to be ready to respond to any situation. Every soldier standing in front of you is in the service of EUFOR and BiH. The families of some of them are closer to the war in Ukraine than you are here in a time of insecurity, their service is a testament to their commitment to peace. Especially now in a time of security breaches, “Wessely said.
He added that the management of the reserve forces is the foundation of any military operation.
“If I consider it a prudent step and if necessary, I can call in additional forces. It is important at this time to show support for BiH institutions,” Wessely added.
The ceremony was attended, among others, by the EU Special Representative in BiH Johann Sattler, and the Chairman of the Presidency of BiH Zeljko Komsic.
Source: Klix.ba
