Macedonian calls Serbian general's statements on KSF "irresponsible"

2026-02-16 15:14:51, Kosova & Bota CNA

Macedonian calls Serbian general's statements on KSF

Kosovo's Defense Minister, Ejup Maqedonci, has called the statements of the head of the Serbian army that the transformation of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) into an army "untrue and irresponsible" could pose a threat to the Serbian community in the country.

The head of the Serbian army, General Milan Mojsilovi?, told the newspaper Politika that the strengthening and modernization of the KSF had a "threatening character" for Kosovo Serbs and that it "does not contribute to peace."

In a Facebook response on Monday, the Macedonian dismissed his claims, saying that the KSF is a professional force, built according to the highest democratic standards.

In recent years, Kosovo has received or purchased various military equipment mainly from the US, such as RQ-20 Puma drones, Javelin missiles, and Humvee vehicles, in an effort to transform itself into an army.

"The strengthening and modernization of the Kosovo Army does not pose a threat to anyone. It constitutes a legitimate right of every sovereign state and a necessity for guaranteeing long-term peace, stability and security in the country and the region," said Maqedonci.

The Macedonian insisted that its mandate "is and remains the protection of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Kosovo, as well as the guarantee of security for all our citizens, without distinction."

He added that such statements "aimed at intimidating communities or justifying destabilizing policies do not contribute to peace and stability."

Serbs make up about 3.31% of the population in Kosovo, according to the official 2024 census.

The KSF, even today, must receive permission from the NATO mission in Kosovo, KFOR, to operate in the northern part of the country, where the majority population is Serb.

This restriction was imposed by former President Hashim Thaçi in 2013, through a letter sent to the then NATO chief, Anders Fogh Rasmussen, and remains in force.

Meanwhile, the transformation of the KSF into an army is expected to be completed in 2028, according to plan, Ministry of Defense officials told Radio Free Europe.

Currently, air capabilities are being developed, combat regiments are being strengthened, and work is being done to complete the reserve component with 3,000 members, as the target for 5,000 regular troops has already been achieved.

Also, the KSF is preparing to join the International Stabilization Force for Gaza, which is part of the peace plan for this region, proposed by US President Donald Trump. /REL