Türkiye to resume command of NATO’s KFOR mission in Kosovo in October

Turkish Army soldiers take security measures around Zubin Potok district in Northern Kosovo upon the request of NATO Kosovo Force (KFOR) in Mitrovica, Kosovo on June 15, 2023. (AA Photo)

Türkiye will reassume command of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) in October 2025 for a one-year term, following its previous successful leadership during the 2023–2024 period, the country’s Ministry of National Defense (MoD) announced recently.

Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk, spokesperson for the ministry, stated that Türkiye will once again lead the international peacekeeping force, continuing its role in supporting security in the Euro-Atlantic region.

ZUBIN POTOK, MITROVICA, KOSOVO - JUNE 15: Turkish Army soldiers take security measures around Zubin Potok district in Northern Kosovo upon the request of NATO Kosovo Force (KFOR) in Mitrovica, Kosovo on June 15, 2023. ( Erkin Keçi - Anadolu Agency )

Türkiye's commitment to NATO and regional stability

"Our country, which has made significant and decisive contributions to the security of NATO and the Euro-Atlantic region in the past, continues to do so today and will do so in the future," said Akturk. "Türkiye will carry out this duty in full neutrality and transparency in line with NATO and United Nations resolutions, fulfilling international responsibilities."

KFOR was established on June 12, 1999, under a United Nations Security Council resolution to support peace and stability in Kosovo. It currently includes around 4,500 military personnel from 29 NATO and non-NATO countries. Türkiye has continuously contributed troops to KFOR since its inception.

First Turkish General appointed NATO Director of Security Cooperation

Akturk also announced that, for the first time in NATO history, a Turkish general has been appointed as NATO’s Director of Security Cooperation. The position is based at NATO’s International Military Headquarters in Brussels. "This appointment is a significant indicator of Türkiye’s effective role in NATO and its contribution to the Alliance’s security and stability," he added.

Turkish Army soldiers take security measures around Zubin Potok district in Northern Kosovo upon the request of NATO Kosovo Force (KFOR) in Mitrovica, Kosovo on June 15, 2023. (AA Photo)

Ankara’s balancing role in the Balkans

Türkiye’s renewed leadership of the KFOR mission highlights its growing strategic role in maintaining stability in the Western Balkans. Ankara has long positioned itself as a mediator in the Serbia-Kosovo dispute, helping to ease tensions through diplomatic engagement.

Since Kosovo’s unilateral declaration of independence in 2008, which Serbia has not recognized, Türkiye has played a consistent role in supporting peace efforts in the region.

Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, fragilities in the Balkans have become more apparent. Türkiye’s assumption of KFOR command during 2023–2024 helped de-escalate tensions in Kosovo. The return of Turkish command in 2025 is seen as a continuation of efforts to stabilize a volatile and unpredictable security environment.

May 10, 2025 12:13 PM GMT+03:00