KFOR Commander: We risked losing everything that was achieved in the past 23 years

The situation in Kosovo is calm and stable, although it may be sensitive in the north and in the past months, we risked losing everything that has been achieved in the previous 23 years.

That is how the new KFOR commander, General Angelo Michele Ristuccia, describes the situation in Kosovo in an interview for Euronews Serbia.

Asked how complicated the situation is according to him, KFOR commander says it is a challenging experience for him and that the situation is unique.

“First of all, this is a challenging experience for me because of the strong mandate I have and the complexity of tasks KFOR must carry out. It's also a complex situation because communities and actors in this area are heterogenic, all have their own interests that sometimes overlap. It's also a complex situation because of tensions that sometimes arise in the population”.

He has already said that, however, they are trying to do their best on the ground.

“to ensure peace and security and that KFOR fulfill its task, which means ensuring a safe environment and contributing to freedom of movement throughout Kosovo.

Riztuccia also stressed that the situation in general is calm and stable, even though it may be sensitive in the north, broadcasts Klankosova.tv.

You know better than I know what happened in the past few months, starting in July. During the previous months, we have been in danger of losing everything that has been achieved in the previous 23 years. The situation is very complex because in the north there has been an exit of people from institutions that led to a vacuum and people feel insecurity and fear at this moment”.

I think there is an unnecessary rhetoric on both sides that does not contribute to peace and stability in this situation. This kind of narrative does not contribute to strengthening and developing dialogue and achieving the results that are needed. I use the opportunity to invite all parties to avoid any statements that could lead to escalation.

He further says KFOR is fully committed to providing security in this area.

“On the ground we carry out tasks in accordance with our mandate defined with UN Resolution 1244 and we work with our means and secure the population we are there to provide security of movement. At the same time, the entire KFOR leadership is involved in meetings with all actors aimed at finding the best solution to ensure that there is enough room for diplomats and politicians to develop dialogue, strengthen mutual confidence, and find the best solutions that can provide a future for all people in Kosovo”, the chief of the North-Atlantic Alliance mission in Kosovo said.