What is the aim of the Kosovo operation?

The KFOR(Kosovo Force) operation is focused on bringing about political stability in the Republic of Kosovo and providing military support for the peace settlement. Not only is stability important for the region itself, but also for German and European security policy. The Russian offensive against Ukraine has further increased the necessity of the mission.

German soldiers are helping to secure public order in their role as part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization NATO and are participating in the democratic stabilisation of the country in various areas with the aim of establishing long-term security and peace in the region.

Why is the deployment being extended?

Although the security situation in Kosovo is mostly calm and stable, the potential for conflict and escalation still exists in the region, especially in the north of the republic where it borders Serbia.

Kosovo and Serbia signed a significant basic agreement on 27 February and 18 March 2023, respectively, which goes a long way towards normalising relations between the two countries. Against this backdrop, it will continue to be necessary for KFOR to maintain a presence in Kosovo to supplement the Kosovo Security Forces as well as the EU European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) should the security situation deteriorate.

What is Germany’s specific contribution?

The Federal Government is sending a clear signal of its commitment to stabilising peace and security in the region through its continued and constant participation in KFOR. The primary role of German soldiers is to uphold public order and security, to coordinate international humanitarian aid, and to assist with the establishment of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) as a democratic national security organisation. Up to 400 Federal Armed Forces may be deployed.

Even in non-military areas, Germany is participating at the EU level to help bring about a normalisation in the discourse between the republics of Serbia and Kosovo.

What is the legal basis for the troop deployment?

The legal basis for the operation is UN Security Council Resolution 1244 (1999), which was passed on 10 June 1999, as well a decision by NATO to deploy on 30 January 1999. As such, Federal Armed Forces personnel are acting within and in accordance with the rules of a system of mutual collective security pursuant to Article 24(2) of the Basic Law.

The mandate authorises Defence Minister Boris Pistorius to provide German forces to carry out the mission for an unlimited period of time or until the UN mandate ends or until NATO chooses not to renew its own mandate.

For more information on the KFOR operation, please visit the Federal Armed Forces website.