U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker met Kosovo leaders to discuss the security situation. He also held talks with the KFOR mission commander.
Prime Minister Albin Kurti discussed U.S. support and cooperation with the Kosovo Security Force. He highlighted training programs and efforts to increase defense capacities. Kurti said security in the Western Balkans remains fragile. He accused Serbia, backed by Russia and China, of pursuing hegemonic policies. He also warned that Serbia’s recent arms purchases threaten long-term regional stability.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić recently described the security environment as complex. He pointed to what he called a military alignment between Pristina, Tirana, and Zagreb. Kosovo, Albania, and Croatia signed a declaration last year to deepen defense cooperation. The three countries rejected claims that the move targets Serbia.
Whitaker also met acting President Albulena Haxhiu. They discussed political developments, regional security, and coordination among allies. Haxhiu thanked the United States for its continued support and commitment to Kosovo’s security.
At the start of his visit, Whitaker met KFOR commander Ozgan Ulutash. Ulutash briefed him on the security situation and stressed KFOR’s role in maintaining a safe environment. He also praised the long-standing U.S. contribution to the mission.
Kosovo aims to join NATO, but four alliance members still do not recognize its independence. Washington supports Kosovo’s membership aspirations. The Kosovo Security Force is transforming into a full army, with completion expected by 2028. The United States backs the transformation, while NATO urges the force to maintain its original crisis-response mandate.
Kosovo also plans to join an International Stabilization Force for Gaza, proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Kosovo is among the first five countries to commit, alongside Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, and Albania.
Before arriving in Kosovo, Whitaker visited North Macedonia and Croatia.
/a.c/
The post US Ambassador to NATO Whitaker meets Kosovo leaders on security appeared first on RTSH English.
