KFOR: Serbian Chief of Defense Mojsilovic notified of mission’s withdrawal from Ibar Bridge in Mitrovica

The NATO-led KFOR mission has initiated a gradual withdrawal of its permanent presence from the main bridge over the Ibar River in Mitrovica, Kosovo. This move signifies a transition in security responsibility for the bridge, which divides the city into Serb-dominated north and ethnic Albanian south.

KFOR stated that the withdrawal is in line with an improved security situation in Kosovo and is part of a process to optimize its posture. The transition is described as gradual and conditions-based, with close coordination among all relevant stakeholders, including Kosovo institutions, international organizations, the Kosovo Police, and the EU Rule of Law Mission (EULEX).

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In line with the improved security situation in Kosovo, this is part of the process for optimizing KFOR’s posture. This process will be gradual, conditions based, and is being closely coordinated with all relevant stakeholders, including representatives of the Institutions in Kosovo and of international organizations, as well as with representatives of the Kosovo Police and the EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX).

The Serbian Chief of Defense, General Milan Mojsilovic, has been kept regularly informed of these developments. KFOR emphasized that its personnel remain well-positioned to respond to any relevant events in accordance with its UN mandate. The mission will continue to maintain a visible presence in both northern and southern Mitrovica, as well as in northern Kosovo, to ensure a safe and secure environment for all communities.

For 27 years since the end of the Kosovo war, international missions had been responsible for securing the bridge. The Kosovo Police have now taken over this responsibility. KFOR reiterated its commitment to fulfilling its mandate under UN Security Council Resolution 1244, contributing to a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for all in Kosovo, impartially and in coordination with local security responders.

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Our personnel are well postured to respond to any relevant developments, in accordance with KFOR’s long-standing UN mandate. KFOR will maintain a visible presence in south and north Mitrovica and in northern Kosovo, by continuing its contributions to maintain a safe and secure environment for all communities.