NATO shows determination to maintain peace in the Balkans, begins the deployment of the Reaction Force in Kosovo and North Macedonia

About 200 members from NATO's Allied Response Force (ARF) will be deployed to the Western Balkans from September 30 to October 16, 2024, to conduct exercises aimed at increasing the readiness and support of the NATO Force in Kosovo. (KFOR).

According to the media release, it is said that this is the first time that an ARF unit has been deployed since its establishment in July 2024.

"A military contingent of about 50 members from the Operational Liaison and Reconnaissance Team of the ARF will be in Kosovo, while a forward command node of about 150 people will be deployed in North Macedonia," the announcement states.

Deployed members will conduct training activities to maintain a high level of readiness and test their capabilities in the rapid deployment of a large force.

"A part of the ARF headquarters will be temporarily integrated into the command and control structures of the KFOR mission, with the task of identifying the requirements for logistical, infrastructural and operational support for KFOR, in case of its reinforcement" , the announcement further states.

The ARF is a strategic, multi-dimensional and high-readiness force that can be deployed at very short notice and supported by scalable packages to enhance deterrence in various scenarios. The ARF provides the High Command of the European Alliance (SACEUR) with an immediate crisis response capability.

This deployment of the ARF, along with the ongoing deployment of the Strategic Reserve Force (SRF) to Kosovo, announced earlier this month, sends a clear message of NATO's determination to "maintain peace and stability in region, as well as for NATO's readiness to react.

The Joint Allied Forces Command Naples (JFCNP) is closely monitoring the situation in the Western Balkans, a region of strategic importance to the Alliance. Repeated tensions and uncoordinated actions are raising concerns for sustainable security in Kosovo and the stability of the region, as well as for the security of NATO troops and its partners," the announcement states.

JFCNP supports the efforts of KFOR in implementing its mandate – based on UN Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999 – to contribute to a safe environment for all citizens and communities living in Kosovo, as and freedom of movement. KFOR acts as the third security responder, in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and the EU Rule of Law mission (EULEX), which are the first and second security responders respectively. /Telegraph/