Turkish units arrive in Kosovo at NATO’s request following tensions

Turkish unit arrives in Kosovo following NATO request amid tensions, set to replace Italian forces, as KFOR aims to maintain security and impartiality

A new Turkish unit, deployed upon NATO’s request following the tension in northern Kosovo, has arrived in Kosovo.

In a statement from NATO’s Kosovo Force (KFOR), it was indicated that the Turkish unit will replace the previously stationed Italian unit in the region.

The statement said, “The deployment of the Turkish unit reflects KFOR’s commitment to continue providing a secure, safe environment, and ensuring freedom of movement for all communities living in Kosovo, always remaining impartial.”

KFOR increases patrol activities

During the tensions in May-June 2023 in northern Kosovo, dozens of KFOR soldiers were injured. Tensions reached their peak in Sept, 24, 2023 when armed Serbian groups attacked Kosovo police in the village of Banjska. This led to clashes throughout the day, resulting in the deaths of one police officer and three attackers.

Following the attack, KFOR had increased its presence and patrol activities in the region.

Established on June 12, 1999, in Kosovo in accordance with the United Nations Security Council resolution to ensure security and stability, KFOR consists of over 4,500 international military personnel from 27 countries, including 21 NATO member states and six non-NATO partner countries.

In 2008, Kosovo declared independence from Serbia. However, there is a large Serbian majority living especially in northern Kosovo. Lately, Kosovo’s decision to abolish the Serbian dinar and switch to the Euro created tensions between the two countries.

Türkiye took over the command of KFOR for a one-year term on Oct. 10, 2023.

Source: Newsroom