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2026-10-15 16:28 UTC → 2026-10-16 15:21 UTC ·
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KFOR leadership transition and Kosovo development security updates
The NATO-led KFOR mission in Kosovo has completed its Following the leadership transition. transition to Major General Roberto Vergori of the Italian Army officially assumed command in Pristina, succeeding Major General Ozkan Ulutash. The handover ceremony, held at Vergori, the KFOR headquarters in the Film City camp, was presided over by Admiral George M. Wikoff, commander of NATO Allied Joint Force Command Naples. During the ceremony, Kosovo President Justina Shiroka Pula emphasized KFOR’s vital role has engaged in high-level diplomatic and field activities to assess the country’s security architecture and its importance for Kosovo’s Euro-Atlantic perspective. Prime Minister Albin Kurti also landscape. In Belgrade, Serbian Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Milan Mojsilović met with Admiral Wikoff and General Vergori to discuss regional the security and continued cooperation between Kosovo’s institutions and NATO. Upon taking command, Major General Vergori emphasized that situation in Kosovo. Mojsilović characterized the mission remains dedicated to ensuring a secure environment for all communities to promote peace, democracy, as sensitive, stating that Serbs “do not feel safe” and prosperity. He noted that ongoing KFOR optimization processes represent an adaptation to the security situation on the ground rather than a withdrawal, their “fundamental rights and freedoms” are under threat. He called for direct communication between the mission will continue Serbian military and KFOR to coordinate with the Kosovo Police monitor field conditions and EULEX. He reaffirmed KFOR's commitment urged international forces to maintaining freedom of movement under implement their mandate impartially in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1244. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto highlighted the strategic importance of the Balkans for regional and Italian security, noting that Italy intends to maintain a strong presence in the region, including potential future installations of defensive radar systems to protect both Balkan nations and Italy from emerging threats. Following the handover, Major Concurrently, General Vergori and Admiral George M. Wikoff visited conducted a visit to northern Kosovo to inspect joint patrols conducted by between KFOR and the Kosovo Police. During this visit, they toured The tour included the Gračanica Monastery and met meetings with Miloš Petrović, the mayor of Zubin Potok, to discuss local security. Prior Potok Mayor Miloš Petrović. During these engagements, KFOR reaffirmed its commitment to the northern tour, professionalism and impartiality. In Pristina, Vergori held meetings in Pristina also met with central authorities, Serbian List officials, and representatives of the Serbian Orthodox Church. Metropolitan Teodosije of Raška and Prizren expressed gratitude for the protection of the Visoki Dečani monastery, emphasizing that KFOR’s presence is vital for maintaining peace and stability in sensitive Serbian areas.