Stronger together for peace

Our mission is well equipped and well positioned to address any significant security developments. And we will continue to support political dialogue moving forward. On behalf of the NATO-led KFOR mission, I extend my warmest wishes for a peaceful and prosperous New Year.

First, I feel privileged and honoured to be the first KFOR Commander to take on such an important responsibility for the second time in the history of this important NATO mission. This appointment provides a sense of continuity and demonstrates the Atlantic Alliance’s unwavering commitment to regional stability at such a historic moment for Kosovo and the Western Balkans in general. It also reflects Turkey’s long-standing commitment to the KFOR mission, to stability in the region and to our shared Euro-Atlantic security.

KFOR: A reliable actor and guarantor of stability

KFOR is NATO’s longest-running and currently largest mission. It has a visible, flexible, well-equipped and agile presence throughout Kosovo. It has a clear mandate, based on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999, which informs all of its daily activities, from patrols, engagements with representatives of all local communities, to support for economic development projects, to name a few. For more than 26 years, KFOR has helped to create and maintain a peaceful and secure environment for all people living in Kosovo, regardless of ethnicity, religion or political affiliation. During 2025, the security situation continued to be calm. However, it remains fragile due to a number of unresolved issues. In this context, KFOR has continued to carry out its mission, fully, professionally and impartially, and in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and the EU Rule of Law Mission (EULEX), in their respective roles as responsible for security.

Supporting a sustainable political solution

Through KFOR, NATO is providing important military contributions to stability in the region. KFOR remains fully focused on the day-to-day implementation of its UN mandate. This is what the men and women under my command will continue to do, every day. Given this, sustainable security in Kosovo, and through it stability in the entire region, is ultimately political and depends on all parties choosing dialogue and cooperation over violence. NATO therefore continues to strongly support the EU-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina to address outstanding issues and pursue sustainable solutions that respect the rights of all people and communities living in Kosovo. My team and I have been in close contact with the EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue throughout the year. Through our daily presence and activities, KFOR also strives to maintain a security framework in support of important and ongoing diplomatic efforts. It is now crucial that Belgrade and Pristina show flexibility and make the necessary compromises to implement existing agreements. This is the only path to sustainable security in Kosovo and regional stability, for the benefit of all communities.

Contributing to a comprehensive approach

KFOR currently consists of more than 5200 troops contributing from 33 countries, including NATO Allies and partners. Our mission thus reflects a collective and multilateral effort. Ultimately, KFOR’s effectiveness is built on the strong cooperation it has developed and continues to consolidate with many partners. Our close coordination with EULEX, UNMIK and the OSCE, as well as with the broader diplomatic community in Kosovo, remains essential to addressing challenges and promoting stability. At the same time, KFOR maintains good cooperation and exchanges with neighboring Allies and other actors in the Western Balkans, and benefits from their valuable regional expertise. Furthermore, it has developed good cooperation with security organizations in Kosovo and the Serbian Armed Forces. Overall, this comprehensive approach contributes to security in Kosovo and to stability throughout the Western Balkans.

Stronger Together for Peace

Our mission motto, “Stronger Together for Peace,” reflects the essence of the collective effort to establish and maintain long-term peace and security in Kosovo and the entire region. This ultimately supports the desire of people in all communities: to live in peace, to continue their daily lives, and to plan for a future free from the uncertainties and risks of recurrent violence. That is why we are determined to continue to make our contributions to all efforts aimed at promoting mutual respect and understanding and constructive dialogue between all communities.

Looking towards 2026

also Arberi October 10, 2026 Ulutash: The path to sustainable security in Kosovo is not military, but political

As we approach 2026, the NATO-led KFOR mission remains committed to its mandate, based on United Nations Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999, to contribute to a secure environment for all people living in Kosovo and freedom of movement, at all times and in an impartial manner. Our commitment has been unwavering for more than two decades and is just as strong today. The progress achieved over the years must not be jeopardized. It must be preserved and strengthened. We are determined to continue to play our part to this end. Our mission is well equipped and well positioned to address any significant security developments. And we will continue to support political dialogue moving forward. On behalf of the NATO-led KFOR mission, I extend my warmest wishes for a peaceful and prosperous New Year. I hope that 2026 brings hope, strengthened connections, and a shared commitment to building a better future for all.

The author is a KFOR Commander.