NATO’s peacekeeping mission in Kosovo, KFOR, has announced the deployment of nearly 270 additional peacekeepers from the operational reserves of Albania, Bulgaria, Greece, and Romania.

KFOR stated that the deployed personnel will operate on a temporary basis, alongside the 200 reserve forces already stationed in Kosovo from the Italian “Sassari” brigade.

“These reinforcements – together with KFOR troops – enhance KFOR’s ability to respond to any significant developments in the security situation, in accordance with its mandate derived from the United Nations, based on UN Security Council Resolution 1244,” the statement read.

KFOR reiterated its commitment to contributing to a safe and secure environment for all people and communities living in Kosovo, working in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and the European Union Rule of Law Mission (EULEX).

KFOR serves as the third responder for security in Kosovo, following the Kosovo Police and EULEX. The NATO mission is also responsible for maintaining security along the border between Kosovo and Serbia.

KFOR has increased its presence whenever tensions have escalated in Kosovo, such as during the armed attack in Banjska, Zvečan in September 2023.

When KFOR was first deployed in Kosovo after the war ended, it consisted of 50,000 troops. Today, that number stands at approximately 4,600 soldiers.