NATO to cut Kosovo peace mission troop levels over next year
What's next: The reductions will track troop rotation cycles and can be reversed if security conditions worsen.
NATO will gradually reduce the size of its KFOR peace support mission in Kosovo over the next year, citing a steady security situation and improved local capabilities. The alliance said the drawdown would follow national troop rotation and redeployment cycles through next year rather than happen all at once. NATO said the changes would be tied to conditions on the ground and could be rolled back if needed. KFOR has operated in Kosovo since 1999. Supreme Allied Commander Europe Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich said NATO and KFOR remain fully committed to safety and security in Kosovo as the mission shifts to a leaner posture.