NATO to reduce Kosovo peacekeeping force over coming year

NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich announced on Friday that the alliance will gradually reduce its peacekeeping force in Kosovo over the coming year, citing improved security conditions that now allow for a smaller military footprint in the Western Balkans.

The decision follows the completion of reserve troop deployments in January, ending more than two years of continuous rotations that reinforced the Kosovo Force (KFOR) following violent unrest in 2023. "NATO and KFOR are fully committed to safety and security in Kosovo," Grynkewich said in a statement, adding: "It is this commitment that has led to increased stability as the security organizations in Kosovo have become more capable. The current conditions provide an opportunity to optimize KFOR's size and posture further."

2023 reinforcements

The additional troops were deployed after tensions flared in 2023, including attacks on NATO peacekeepers in the northern Kosovo town of Zvecan.

Nearly 1,000 extra soldiers were sent at that time, marking the largest reinforcement of the mission in more than a decade. KFOR has maintained a presence in Kosovo since 1999 under a United Nations mandate, working to maintain a safe and secure environment amid ongoing political tensions between Belgrade and Pristina.

Conditions on the ground

Future reductions will occur through normal troop rotation cycles and remain tied to conditions on the ground, according to NATO officials.

The alliance noted that the process could be reversed if security deteriorates. NATO also reaffirmed its commitment to the Western Balkans and pledged continued support for the EU-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, describing the diplomatic process as essential for long-term regional stability.