Kosovo Defense Chief Warns of Serbia's Border Military Buildup Amid NATO 'Defender 25' Exercise
May 29, 2025
Kurti noted that three out of four combined brigades of the Serbian army are stationed in southern Serbia, close to Kosovo, specifically in Raška, Niš, and Vranje.
Maqedonci emphasized that Serbia's military presence is not coincidental and reflects an aggressive posture towards Kosovo, countering any claims of a peaceful approach as mere propaganda.
He stressed the importance of building a capable military force in Kosovo to ensure the safety of its citizens and contribute to global peace.
In this context, Kosovo is hosting the largest NATO exercise in the Balkans, 'Defender 25', which marks a significant return to military collaboration after a two-year suspension due to prior tensions.
This exercise will involve over 25,000 troops from the US and 25 allied nations, showcasing a robust display of military cooperation in Europe.
Kosovo has been designated as a key location for the US Army's command of the 28th Infantry Division during the exercise, highlighting its strategic military partnerships.
Approximately 1,000 members of the Kosovo Security Force, along with troops from Albania, Croatia, and North Macedonia, are participating, demonstrating operational readiness and combat interoperability with NATO allies.
Former British officer Ade Clewlow remarked on the ongoing threat posed by Serbia, referencing recent incidents like the Banjska event as evidence of the precarious situation.
Kurti expressed uncertainty about whether Serbia's military actions are independently initiated or influenced by directives from Russia, adding complexity to the regional security landscape.
Maqedonci's warnings have been consistent over the past two years, as he aims to draw attention to Serbia's military positioning amidst internal political distractions in Kosovo.
Kosovo's acting Minister of Defense, Ejup Maqedonci, has raised alarms over Serbia's military deployment, stating that 70% of its forces are positioned near the Kosovo border, which heightens security concerns.
Acting Prime Minister Albin Kurti echoed these concerns, linking Serbia's military buildup to the ongoing 'Defender Europe 2025' exercise, which he views as a provocative response.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources

Telegrafi • May 28, 2025
Former British officer: The danger from Serbia is real
Telegrafi • May 29, 2025
Serbia's military buildup on the border with Kosovo, Kurti: Reaction to "Defender Europe 25"
