The international peacekeeping forces in Kosovo led by NATO (KFOR) issued an official statement on the occasion of the most current events in Kosovo and the security situation, prompted by the blockade of parallel Serbian institutions in the north of the country.
KFOR officials described the security situation in the country as calm but fragile, especially in the north, a part populated mostly by Serbs. In addition to independent patrols, they stated that they conduct joint patrols with the Kosovo Police, as well as patrols with the Armed Forces of Serbia along the border line, in order to guarantee security.
In addition to the north, KFOR has announced patrols in other cities in recent weeks.
“We implement our UN mandate at all times and impartially, through various activities. This includes regular patrols, which are carried out in different formats, such as independent KFOR patrols throughout Kosovo and along the border line, joint patrols with the Kosovo Police and synchronized patrols, parallel to the Serbian armed forces on the respective sides of the border lines,” the KFOR Information Office announced in the response provided by Koha.
In recently published statements, it was said that KFOR members carried out patrols along the border line in Pristina and East, in order to consolidate regional stability.
KFOR added that these patrols, as well as engagements with all local communities, represent a “concrete and visible demonstration of NATO’s long-term and unwavering commitment to stable security throughout Kosovo and stability throughout the Western Balkans.”
“KFOR continues to closely monitor the situation. We have a visible, flexible and responsible presence that allows us to effectively deal with all significant security developments, in accordance with our UN mandate,” the response states.
Asked about the security situation after the Government’s warnings about the opening of the bridge over the Ibar River, KFOR said that the situation is calm but fragile.
“In general, the security situation in Kosovo is calm, but it is still fragile, especially in the north of Kosovo. We are closely monitoring the development of events and maintain a visible and appropriate presence through regular patrols and engagement with local communities,” they added.
KFOR added that they continue to operate in Kosovo as the third responsible, after the Kosovo Police and EULEX.
“We continue to fulfill our UN mandate – based on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999 – to contribute to a peaceful and secure environment for all people and communities living in Kosovo, at all times and impartially,” they concluded.
