By: U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker

Last month marked 27 years since NATO, led by the United States and our Allies, intervened to halt a humanitarian catastrophe in Kosovo. A few months later, in June 1999, NATO forces entered Kosovo to help end violence, protect civilians, and lay the foundation for a peaceful future. Since then, NATO’s Kosovo Force (KFOR) has become one of the most trusted institutions in Kosovo. Its presence has deterred violence, reassured communities, and created the security space needed for democratic institutions and a vibrant civil society to grow. The professionalism and sacrifices of Americans and Allies who have served under the KFOR flag has saved lives and helped facilitate progress in the region.

Today, the United States is working with Kosovo to transition from a security consumer to an exporter as it increasingly takes responsibility for its own defense. The United States strongly supports the Kosovo Security Force’s (KSF) transition into a multi-ethnic, territorial defense force under civilian control. Continuing the strong cooperation we have nurtured between Kosovo’s security institutions and KFOR is crucial to this effort.  

Robust defense cooperation between the United States and Kosovo is central to that vision. Kosovo has increased its defense spending, striving to reach a global standard of 5 percent of GDP for security and defense — a serious commitment to self-reliance. Joint exercises with U.S. and Allied forces, such as Kosovo hosting and participating in Defender Europe 25, are improving interoperability and readiness. The State Partnership Program with the Iowa National Guard is a flagship example of sustained, practical cooperation.

Kosovo is also taking important steps beyond its borders.  Its participation in international peace and security efforts, including contributions to the International

Stabilization Force in Gaza and its role as a founding member of the Board of Peace, show that Kosovo takes seriously its responsibilities as a contributor to regional and global stability.

The United States’ goals remain clear.  We are steadfastly committed to long-term peace and stability in the Western Balkans and want to see a future in which Kosovo is recognized as a reliable partner who promotes peace, security, and prosperity.  Kosovo’s future lies in deeper integration with the international community, including continued cooperation with the United States and other NATO members. To achieve this, Kosovo must also address its own issues, including ensuring security for all communities within its borders. Progress on normalizing relations with Serbia, continued regional stability, and close coordination with the United States and NATO are essential for continued stability.