NATO commander calls for justice for Zvecan and Banjska attacks. Major General Ulutaş emphasized the need for Serbia to cooperate in ensuring accountability and preventing future incidents.
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| NATO-led KFOR mission has successfully maintained peace and security in Kosovo. The outgoing commander, Major General Özkan Ulutaş, highlighted the mission's achievements and the importance of accountability for recent attacks. Image Credit: NATO |
Brussels, Belgium – September 26, 2024:
The outgoing commander of the NATO-led peacekeeping force in Kosovo, KFOR, has emphasized the mission's crucial contribution to regional stability. Major General Özkan Ulutaş, from Türkiye, briefed the North Atlantic Council and partner nations on his tenure's accomplishments at NATO Headquarters on Wednesday.
During his meeting with NATO's Acting Deputy Secretary General, Ambassador Boris Ruge, Ulutaş highlighted KFOR's role in providing a safe and secure environment for all communities in Kosovo. He underscored the mission's impartial approach and its efforts to foster freedom of movement.
One year after the violent attacks in Zvecan and Banjska, NATO reiterated its call for those responsible to be brought to justice. The alliance urged Serbia to cooperate in ensuring full accountability and prevent similar incidents from happening again. KFOR's mandate includes preventing such attacks and maintaining a secure environment for all communities.
NATO continues to support the EU-facilitated Dialogue as the framework for achieving a long-term, sustainable solution that respects the rights of all communities in Kosovo.
Major General Ulutaş, who will be succeeded by Major General Enrico Barduani from Italy on October 11, expressed satisfaction with KFOR's achievements under his command. He highlighted the mission's success in maintaining peace and security, preventing renewed violence, and containing potential incidents. Ulutaş also emphasized KFOR's role in fostering safety and security for all communities and providing a secure environment for diplomatic efforts.