Kosovo authorities have rejected claims that the US military is planning to withdraw from Kosovo.
“This news, shared by some websites and television channels, is disinformation spread by external actors with the aim of destabilizing the country and the Western Balkans,” the Kosovo Ministry of Defense said in a statement.
It stressed that the withdrawal of US troops from the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) is “out of the question,” as such decisions on deployment or withdrawal are not made randomly.
The ministry recalled the constant coordination with the US on every decision and regular weekly communication with KFOR, stressing once again that the media claims are unfounded.
A NATO official told Anadolu Agency that the United States continues to play a fundamental role with its deep-rooted contribution to KFOR and is currently supporting the mission with more than 600 troops.
“US officials have made it clear that they are committed to the Alliance, including the US presence in Europe and the need to keep NATO’s deterrence and defence strong,” the official said, adding that the US expects its NATO allies to do and invest more for their shared security.
Stressing that NATO is constantly adapting to an ever-changing environment, the official said their commitment to stability in the Western Balkans is unwavering.
Western countries fear that a potential deal between the US and Russia on Ukraine and the changing priorities of President Donald Trump’s administration could lead to an end to the presence of US troops in parts of Europe, AA writes.
