KFOR is well-resourced and well-positioned to prevent escalation and address any security scenario, says KFOR Commander Ozkan Ulutash. He assesses that the security situation in Kosovo is calm, but fragile, while adding that KFOR continues to monitor with vigilance.
"In general, the situation on the ground is calm, but remains fragile. KFOR is monitoring the situation. It is alert and well placed to respond to any further relevant developments, in line with the longstanding UN mandate to contribute to a peaceful and secure environment for all people and communities living in Kosovo and freedom of the movement, at any time and in an impartial manner", he underlines in the written interview for Kosovapress.
Ulutash added that he is well placed to address any security scenario.
“We are well positioned to address any security scenario and continue to effectively implement our UN mandate. We constantly monitor all relevant developments that may affect security throughout Kosovo and the region... KFOR is well-resourced and well-positioned to prevent escalation and address any security scenario, in line with our UN mandate- ", said Ulutash.
On the one-year anniversary of the terrorist attack in Banjska of Zveçan, where police sergeant Afrim Bunjaku was killed, the KFOR commander says that they expect the perpetrators to be held accountable.
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"We have condemned the unacceptable violent attacks in Banjska and we will continue to insist that the perpetrators be held accountable and brought to justice," says Ulutash.
KSP: How do you assess the security situation in Kosovo?
Ulutash: Overall, the situation on the ground is calm but remains fragile. KFOR is monitoring the situation. It is alert and well placed to respond to any further relevant developments, in line with the longstanding UN mandate to contribute to a peaceful and secure environment for all people and communities living in Kosovo and freedom of movement, at any time and impartially. KFOR continues to act as a third security responder, in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and the EU Rule of Law mission (EULEX), which are the first and second security responders, respectively. I would like to add that throughout my tenure as KFOR commander, I have clearly felt the desire for lasting peace and security among all communities.
KSP: Why is KFOR against the opening of the Ibri bridge? Based on the Brussels agreements, the bridge was expected to be opened in 2019, while the Kosovo Police say that there are no indications of increased tensions in the event of the opening of the Ibri bridge? What will be the position of KFOR if asked by the Kosovo Police to remove the troops over the Ibër river? How is the current cooperation with the police in the north?
Ulutash: KFOR's stance on the Ibri bridge has been transparent and consistent throughout, and has recently been reiterated by the KFOR Spokesperson. The NATO-led KFOR mission is fully focused on implementing its UN mandate, based on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999. Contributing to a peaceful and secure environment for all people and communities living in Kosovo and for freedom of movement, at any time and in an impartial manner. Regarding the possible opening of the Ibër river bridge in Mitrovica for vehicles, our position has been transparent and consistent throughout. Any decision in this direction must be taken through dialogue and in timely and effective coordination with the International Community. In the meantime, KFOR will maintain its fixed presence on the bridge and will continue to carry out regular patrols in the surrounding areas. Recently, some training activities were carried out by KFOR personnel on the bridge. These were part of our regular activities designed to test long-term operational procedures and maintain the highest standard of readiness of our troops. KFOR continues to monitor the situation. We are well positioned to address any security scenario and continue to effectively implement our UN mandate.
KSP: How do you see the risk of a military attack from Serbia in Kosovo, when it is known that Serbia has put military forces on alert around the border?
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Ulutash: Over the years, KFOR has developed good cooperation with the Armed Forces of Serbia, as evidenced by KFOR's observations of past exercises and regular contacts we have with our Serbian counterparts. I remain in close contact with the Chief of Defense of Serbia, as well as with security institutions and organizations in Kosovo. Regular and transparent communications and interactions help increase mutual situational awareness, avoid misunderstandings and contribute to regional stability. We constantly monitor all relevant developments that may affect security throughout Kosovo and the region. KFOR is well resourced and positioned to prevent escalation and address any security scenario, in line with our UN mandate.
KSP: Still no responsibility for the terrorist attack in Banjska?
Ulutash: NATO and KFOR have been very clear on this point all along. The facts must be proven and we expect the perpetrators to be held accountable. In the wake of the violence of the past years, we have deployed approximately 1000 additional peacekeepers and heavier equipment to Kosovo. We have increased the positioning of KFOR in the north of Kosovo and tripled the number of patrols, including along the administrative border line. They were cautious steps to ensure that KFOR has the strength, capabilities and flexibility to continue to fulfill its UN mandate effectively. This was also the biggest reinforcement of our contingent in Kosovo in a decade; and this shows that NATO is ready to keep the peace.
KSP: What is your opinion about Serbia's involvement in the September 24 attack?
Ulutash: I will not interfere in any speculation. We have condemned the unacceptable violent attacks in Banjska and will continue to insist that the perpetrators are held accountable and brought to justice.
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KSP: Has KFOR taken additional measures to increase the level of security in areas populated by Serbs in Kosovo?
Ulutash: Our current mission strength consists of approximately 4600 troops from 29 contributing countries, including NATO allies and partners. Such a strong and visible presence allows us to effectively monitor the situation and take all necessary measures to continue fulfilling our UN mandate, throughout Kosovo, at all times and in an impartial manner. .
