NATO and the European Union are deploying additional resources to Kosova for the parliamentary elections on February 9. NATO has sent 200 extra Italian soldiers to reinforce its KFOR peacekeeping mission, now with about 4,000 troops, down from 50,000 in 1999. KFOR’s Italian “Sassari” infantry brigade will conduct various activities and be ready to respond to security developments, including during the elections.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed concerns over potential destabilization and confirmed communication with Kosovo and Serbia to ensure a peaceful election period.

The European Union will monitor the elections with a mission of 100 observers, led by MEP Nathalie Loiseau, emphasizing EU support for Kosova’s democratic governance. Loiseau also highlighted that the elections will reflect Kosova’s political pluralism.

This marks the seventh EU observer mission for elections in Kosova. The campaign, which began on January 11, has been marred by inflammatory political rhetoric. 28 political parties and one independent candidate are competing.

Tensions are high, particularly with the Serbian minority and neighboring Serbia. The four prime ministerial candidates have focused on internal policies but have not prioritized normalizing relations with Serbia.

Tensions escalated on January 15 when Kosova authorities closed Serbian institutions in ten municipalities, which they deemed illegal. The closure of these institutions, including the post office and tax offices, has been controversial, as Kosovo prosecutors stated they had not authorized the operation.

Serbs in northern Kosova continue to receive support from Belgrade, which funds parallel structures and provides benefits. The EU and U.S. have criticized Prishtina’s actions, urging Kosova and Serbia to normalize relations through the Brussels dialogue as a key step toward European integration.

/a.p./