Crosetto in Pristina: Italy is assessing the deployment of military radars in the Balkans

Italy is considering deploying military radars in the Balkans, with the aim of strengthening the defense of the countries in the region and Italy itself against future threats. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto also said that his country’s commitment to Kosovo would continue even if the KFOR presence were reduced.

According to the Italian news agency ANSA, the statements were made in Pristina during the ceremony marking the transfer of command of the KFOR mission, where Major General Roberto Vergori took command of the forces.

Crosetto said that General Vergori’s assumption of command marked the continuation of Italy’s commitment to Kosovo. He added that Italy considers the Balkans an important area for its security and would remain present even after a possible reduction in KFOR troops.

The Italian minister described ensuring security in the Balkans and using the region’s capabilities to prevent threats as essential. In this context, he also mentioned the possibility of deploying radars, which, he said, would help protect the Balkan countries and Italy.

Speaking about risks that could emerge in the future, Crosetto referred to the missiles that struck airports in Saudi Arabia. He stressed that these weapons had been built by the Houthis, not by sophisticated engineers, while reaching a speed of 8,500 kilometers per hour.

According to him, this development illustrates the scale of the threats that all countries could face in the future and the need to protect neighboring states and friendly countries as well.

Crosetto emphasized that cooperation with allies is essential for establishing a defensive shield that would help prevent future threats.