The NATO mission in Kosovo, KFOR, has reacted regarding the recent tensions in northern Kosovo. 

Through a statement by Commander Angelo Michele Ristuccia, KFOR appealed to all parties to ease tensions and avoid rhetoric that escalates the already tense situation.

“It is important that all parties involved avoid any rhetoric or actions that could cause tensions and escalate the situation,” said the commander of the NATO peacekeeping force in Kosovo (KFOR), Angelo Michele Ristuccia.

“Solutions must be sought through dialogue,” he added. 

Tensions between Prishtina and Belgrade have worsened recently, where 19 days ago the local Serbs living in northern Kosovo erected barricades blocking the border-crossing as a sign of dissatisfaction with the arrest of the former Kosovo Serb policeman, Dejan Pantic.