Germany fears situation in the north could resume, continues military presence in Kosovo

So it is at least considering the German Ministry of Defence, which has said German military (Bundeswehr) in Kosovo serve the country's stabilisation.

For this reason, the Federal Cabinet has decided that Bundeswehr's participation in Kosovo's international security presence will be extended for another year.

Following this decision by the federal government cabinet, the same goes to Parliament for discussion and decision making.

Germany's Defence Ministry considers that since the beginning of KFOR's operation, the situation in Kosovo and the Western Balkan region has stabilised significantly.

In recent years, this minister says, NATO has been able to gradually and significantly reduce its forces in the region.

A dialogue is currently under way between the Republic of Serbia and the Republic of Kosovo for normalising relations. Although the republics are approaching slowly, there is still potential for escalation. Old tensions can flare again, especially in northern Kosovo”, Germany's MM says.

Furthermore, in the argument for extending the mandate of German forces to KFOR, Bundeswehr's presence in Kosovo is still needed “due to the existing potential for escalation in the region”.

“This is why Germany will continue to support this mission within NATO to militarily secure peace in the Balkan region. This is a prerequisite for further political, social and economic developments in the Republic of Kosovo until normalising relations with Serbia. This will open the prospect of EU membership for both countries”, Germany's Defence Ministry launched.

Following the government cabinet's decision, the German Bundestag will discuss the first reading between May 10th and May 12th and will vote in second reading on May 26th 2023 the decision to continue the German mandate in KFOR.