NATO increases troop numbers in Kosovo, where tensions are rising

NATO’s Kosovo Peacekeeping Force (KFOR) reported that it has increased its presence in the region where tensions are rising in northern Kosovo.

In the KFOR statement, it was indicated that the presence in 4 municipalities increased this morning after the latest events, and said: “We call on the parties to refrain from actions that fuel the tension.” Recalling that KFOR aims to ensure security in Kosovo in accordance with the mandate given by the United Nations (UN) in 1999, it was noted that KFOR was ready to take all necessary measures impartially within the framework of this mandate. .

In the statement, it was emphasized that the KFOR commander was in contact with the military representatives of Kosovo and Serbia, as well as the EU EULEX mission of the EU, and called on the governments of Belgrade and Pristina to work within the dialogue process. led by the EU aimed at standardization. and peace.

TENSION IN NORTH KOSOVO

Serbs from northern Kosovo, where tensions have increased in recent days, protested yesterday in front of the town halls of Zveçan, Zubin Potok and Leposavic to prevent the inauguration of the new Albanian mayors and their entry into municipal buildings.

Demanding that the Kosovo police withdraw from the municipal buildings and that the newly elected Albanian mayors not take office, the Serbs attempted to enter the municipal buildings bypassing the police cordon. The Kosovo police and the NATO Kosovo Peacekeeping Force (KFOR) had surrounded the town halls and increased the number of personnel in the area.

There was also a clash on May 26 between the Kosovar Serbs and the security forces, who opposed the appointment of police officers in the municipalities of Leposavic, Zveçan and Zubin Potok, where Serbs mostly live in northern Kosovo. It was announced that 5 police officers were slightly injured and 4 team vehicles were damaged in the fight.

It was claimed that Serbian President Vucic ordered the army to “be ready” and that members of the army moved to the Kosovo border. (AA)