KFOR to ensure support dialogue amid Kosovo-Serbia tensions

The security situation in Kosovo remains fragile with a persistent risk of escalation, says KFOR Commander Enrico Buardani, adding that the terrorist attack on the Ibër-Lepenc canal has compromised the country's security, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

Major General Buardani, who officially assumed the role of NATO mission chief in Kosovo in October, emphasized KFOR’s critical role in the current circumstances.

“There is still work to be done to establish the necessary conditions for maintaining a safe and stable environment, including those that are primarily political in nature. By this, I explicitly refer to the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue and the importance of its progress. Therefore, KFOR will continue to fulfill its mission to ensure security for all people living in Kosovo; and through its daily presence and activities across Kosovo, it will continue to create space for political dialogue to achieve a long-term resolution of unresolved issues,” he said in a written interview with KosovaPress.

Unresolved issues between Kosovo and Serbia, along with regional disinformation, as he noted, are contributing to the persistent risk of escalation in Kosovo.

“The recent attack on the Ibër-Lepenc canal highlights the fragility of the security situation in Kosovo. KFOR will work closely with Kosovo’s security organizations and the international community to support security during the upcoming elections early next year. If the situation requires, NATO also has the ability to immediately reinforce KFOR with reserve force units on very short notice.”

He also addressed the opening of the Ibër Bridge, stating that KFOR maintains a transparent and consistent stance, emphasizing that any decision should be made through dialogue with the international community.
“The Ibër Bridge is a political issue, not a military one,” stressed the KFOR commander.