U.S. General George Wikoff spoke yesterday about optimizing KFOR’s presence in Kosovo, focusing particularly on the Ibar Bridge. According to him, the transition is part of a broader optimization process and reflects the improved situation on the ground.

Despite this development, Wikoff made clear that KFOR troops will continue to remain in the areas near the bridge.

“KFOR personnel will continue to be present in the surrounding areas,” Wikoff stressed.

Admiral George Wikoff, Commander of NATO’s Joint Force Command in Naples, said that the gradual transition from KFOR’s permanent position at the Ibar Bridge is part of a broader optimization effort and evidence of an improved security situation. He explained that every decision regarding KFOR’s presence at the Mitrovica Bridge is made on the basis of an assessment of the security situation.

He added that KFOR’s mandate does not include deciding whether or not the bridge should be opened. According to Wikoff, once KFOR ends its permanent presence on the bridge, responsibility for this issue will lie with the EU and the relevant institutions in Kosovo.

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