Maqedonci talks with the American representative at NATO about defense cooperation and Black Hawk helicopters

Kosovo’s Minister of Defense, Ejup Maqedonci, met with the United States Permanent Representative to the North Atlantic Alliance, Matthew Whitaker, on the sidelines of the Warsaw Security Forum 2026.

According to the Ministry of Defense’s statement, the talks focused on deepening bilateral relations in the defense sector, as well as coordination on issues of interest to both countries.

According to the announcement, Minister Maqedonci thanked the American authorities for the invaluable assistance they have given to Kosovo, the ministry he heads, and the Kosovo Security Force (KSF). In this context, he also highlighted the cooperation with the Iowa National Guard, which began more than 15 years ago under the State Partnership Program and, as emphasized, is strengthening the country’s capabilities through training, joint exercises, and the exchange of experiences.

Ambassador Whitaker, for his part, pledged support for Kosovo’s path toward NATO membership, as well as the continuation of Washington’s assistance in building the country’s defense capabilities, the Ministry reports.

It was also announced from the meeting that the cooperation between the two countries is extending to military procurement and the defense industry. In this framework, there was talk of systems guaranteed by America, but also of the procedures that have begun for securing Black Hawk helicopters, as well as the need for support for Kosovo’s defense industry.

Minister Maqedonci reaffirmed, according to the ministry, the necessity of support for Kosovo’s integration into the alliance and the further opening of access for Kosovo soldiers to NATO programs and schools. There was also talk of deepening cooperation with NATO regarding the presence and optimization of KFOR, as well as the integrated handling of Kosovo’s airspace.

The statement emphasizes that Maqedonci expressed interest in examining possibilities for cooperation under a responsibility-sharing model, mentioning Camp Bondsteel and the Gjakova Airport. He also praised Kosovo’s participation in the International Stabilization Force in Gaza, describing it as proof of the country’s readiness to contribute to international peace and security.

The meeting ended with Minister Maqedonci’s invitation to Ambassador Whitaker to visit Kosovo, with the aim of continuing the dialogue and advancing relations between the two countries. As stated in the announcement, the alliance with the United States remains fundamental for building defense capabilities and for Kosovo’s Euro-Atlantic perspective.