NATO plans gradual troop reduction in Kosovo

NATO plans to reduce the number of peacekeeping troops in Kosovo next year after an improvement in security, the commander of its KFOR mission said.

Major General Özkan Ulutaş said the reduction would be gradual and would depend on conditions on the ground. NATO could reverse it if security worsens.

KFOR currently has about 4,600 troops from 31 countries.

NATO added more than 1,000 troops to the mission in 2023 after security deteriorated.

Ulutaş announced the plan during a meeting with Serbia’s military chief in Belgrade. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte first confirmed the planned reduction in June.

KFOR will remain responsible for maintaining security and supporting European Union-led talks between Kosovo and Serbia.