Türkiye continues to contribute to international peace missions. Approximately 65 personnel from the 350th Mechanized Infantry Brigade, NATO Peace Force in Kosovo (KFOR) completed their transfers to fill the vacant positions in Italy. This development once again demonstrated that the Turkish Armed Forces made an important contribution to NATO's efforts to ensure stability and security in the region.
Contribution to KFOR Mission
According to NATO's official statement, Turkish troops:
- He took over their duties, replacing the elements that had left Italy.
- It will be employed to respond to developments regarding the security situation in Kosovo.
- Kosovo Police ve European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) will participate in security activities by working in coordination with.
KFOR's Mission Statement and the Role of Turkish Troops
What is KFOR?
KFOR (Kosovo Force), To ensure security in Kosovo It is an international peacekeeping force established under the leadership of NATO in 1999. United Nations Security Council resolution 1244 KFOR, which continues its activities in accordance with:
- It aims to create a safe environment and ensure freedom of movement in Kosovo.
- Kosovo Police ve EULEX extension cooperates with.
The Role of Turkish Troops
Turkish Armed Forces take part in various missions within the scope of KFOR:
- Security Case Management: Preventing possible risks and addressing security scenarios.
- Activity Participation: Participation in activities organized together with other elements of KFOR.
- Local Collaboration: Working closely with Kosovo Police and other security units in the region.
Turkey's Importance in the KFOR Mission
Türkiye has made significant contributions to KFOR since its establishment:
- Türkiye, which has been actively involved in KFOR since 1999, supports the establishment of peace and security in Kosovo.
- Taking over command of KFOR for the first time in 2023Türkiye has once again demonstrated its commitment to this mission.
- Major General Ozkan UlutasHe served as the 28th KFOR commander and led operations in Kosovo until 10 October 2024.
Staff Contribution
Turkey is among the countries that provide the most personnel within KFOR. Türkiye, which ranks second among 27 countries, clearly demonstrates the importance and contribution it gives to the region.
History of KFOR
KFOR was established in 1999 to control the security situation in Kosovo. Initially, it was With 50.000 soldiers The number of soldiers of KFOR, which started its operations, decreased with the improvement of the security environment and today it is approximately 3.500 personnel has fallen.
KFOR's Milestones
- 1999: First deployment in Kosovo.
- 2002: Decrease in the number of soldiers as the security situation improves.
- 2023: Turkey takes over command of KFOR for the first time.
NATO Mission in Türkiye and Kosovo
The Turkish Armed Forces play a critical role in NATO's mission in Kosovo:
- Contribution to Peace and Security: Turkey's military presence supports maintaining stability in Kosovo.
- Regional Stability: Turkey's contributions serve to ensure peace and security not only in Kosovo but throughout the Balkans.
Turkey's Contribution to International Peace
Turkey has once again demonstrated its determination to contribute to international peace and security with the support it provides to NATO's KFOR mission in Kosovo. 65 personnel from the 350th Mechanized Infantry Brigade Its deployment demonstrates Turkey's commitment to this mission and its determination to ensure stability in Kosovo.
