NATO Concerned over W. Balkan Security, Will Further Increase Presence in Kosovo

Kosovo Kfor (BETAPHOTO/SASA DJORDJEVIC)

In an interview for the Balkan Security Network published on Oct. 9, Commander of the NATO Joint Force Command in Naples Admiral Stuart Munsch said that the North Atlantic Alliance is concerned over the recent violence in Kosovo and will deploy additional troops to the territory to ensure that KFOR has the resources necessary to meet any challenge.

“Belgrade and Pristina must take concrete steps to deescalate the situation and refrain from further irresponsible behavior that creates an atmosphere conducive to the spread of violence. Constructive dialogue is the only way to overcome differences. The dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina mediated by the EU is the best platform for finding a solution which takes into consideration the rights of all communities [in Kosovo],” Munsch stated.

The admiral further expressed his concern over the recent violence Kosovo, including the attack on KFOR soldiers in May and the assault on Kosovo police in September.

Munsch recalled that, following the tensions in May, NATO deployed an additional 500 soldiers from Turkey, which have since been replaced by forces from Bulgaria and Greece.

“Aside from that, on Sept. 28, about 200 British soldiers from the 1st Battalion Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment joined the 400-strong British contingent already in Kosovo. Other NATO members will also send reinforcements,” he told the portal.

Speaking of NATO’s relationship with the Army of Serbia, Munsch said that this partnership contributes to peace and stability in the Western Balkans and that his organization respects official Belgrade’s neutrality.

“Strengthening ties between NATO and Serbia would be useful to NATO, Serbia and the entire region. We hope that Serbia will have constructive relations with NATO and its neighbors. I completely respect Serbia’s policy of military neutrality,” Munsch concluded.