In a press conference in Brussels today, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte affirmed that KFOR forces are present in Kosovo and will continue to remain there.

Rutte also highlighted the upcoming Berlin Process meeting this week, noting it as evidence that “Russians are attempting to interfere in the Western Balkans, but we will not allow ourselves to be distracted; we will remain focused on this issue.”

“KFOR forces are there, and they will stay there. Let us not be naive; Russia, as we know and can see, is trying to undermine democracies in the region. We face cyber and hybrid threats that are very real, along with disinformation campaigns. We know they try to exploit internal weaknesses to sow division, making it more difficult for Pristina and Belgrade to engage in discussions, and for all parts of the region to prevent any separatist movements from gaining traction. This is what Russia always does—creating difficulties. What we must do is stay calm and focused, and KFOR is doing that; NATO is doing that. I know our partners in the Western Balkans are doing the same,” Rutte stated.

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