KFOR command transition: General Ulutash to hand over leadership to Italy's Vergori

Major General Ozkan Ulutash is concluding his mandate as the commander of the NATO-led KFOR mission in Kosovo. In a farewell address, Ulutash noted that the security situation in the region is significantly improved compared to 1999. He emphasized that sustainable security in Kosovo is a political matter rather than a military one, highlighting the importance of the EU-facilitated dialogue between Pristina and Belgrade.

Ulutash will officially hand over command to Major General Roberto Vergori of the Italian Army on October 14 in Pristina. The transition reaffirms Italy's leadership role in Balkan security. During his tenure, Ulutash noted that KFOR remains the third responder in security, working alongside the Kosovo Police and EULEX to maintain stability and freedom of movement.

In addition to the leadership transition, KFOR troops from the Regional Command West have been conducting series of foot marches in difficult mountainous terrain around the Villaggio Italia camp to maintain physical readiness and operational capabilities.