Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti stated that he believes the increased readiness and presence of Serbian military forces at the border with Kosovo is a reaction to the largest military exercise, “Defender Europe 2025,” in which the Republic of Kosovo is also a host country.

In his address during the meeting of the acting Government, Kurti said that the Republic of Kosovo is participating in this exercise with approximately 1,000 members of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF).

He said that Kosovo's institutions and army are demonstrating their capability to host and organize complex exercises.

"Currently, in three geographic areas across the European continent, the largest exercise organized by the U.S. Army in Europe is taking place—'Defender Europe 25'—with participation from 25,000 troops from 29 NATO countries. The Republic of Kosovo has the honor and pleasure to be among the 18 host countries, and the Kosovo Security Force is participating with approximately 1,000 troops in the exercises taking place in Kosovo, Albania, Croatia, and North Macedonia. This time, the Republic of Kosovo has been chosen by the United States Army as the location for the 28th Infantry Division’s command headquarters. From the KSF base at the Gjakova Airport, this American tactical command is leading all brigades in the Southeast European region. Our institutions and our army are proving capable of hosting and organizing complex exercises that require high-level planning, organization, and support,” he said.

Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti stated that the increased readiness and presence of Serbian armed forces at the border is a reaction to Defender Europe 2025.

However, he added that what is still unclear is whether “Serbia is doing this on its own or at Russia’s request.”

"We believe that the increased readiness and presence of the Serbian Armed Forces at our border is a reaction to Defender Europe 25, but what we don’t yet know is whether Serbia is doing this on its own or if this is something Russia has requested,” he said.

As of this Monday, the military exercise “Defender Europe 2025” has begun in Kosovo and will continue until June 9.

For the third time, Kosovo is hosting the largest international military exercise led by the United States Army for Europe and Africa — “Defender Europe 2025.”

In this exercise, which is the largest multinational military drill led by the United States, Kosovo will not only act as a host but will also participate with approximately 1,000 members of the Kosovo Security Force, KosovaPress reports.

Around 25,000 troops from 29 NATO allied and partner countries are expected to take part in the operation, which is led by the U.S. Army Europe and Africa Command.