NATO revealed who is the new KFOR Commander

"Major-General Ozkan Ulutash will leave his post on October 11, 2024. He will be succeeded by Major-General Enrico Barduani from Italy," they stated in the announcement. Barduani's name has been mentioned since July, when Serbian Defense Minister Bratislav Gašić met with the Chief of General Staff of the Italian Armed Forces, Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone.

"He expressed the expectation that Major General Enrico Barduani, upon assuming the duties of KFOR commander, will have excellent cooperation and communication with the Chief of the General Staff of the Serbian Armed Forces, General Milan Mojsilović," the media in Belgrade announced at the time, referring to the Ministry of Defense of Serbia.

The announcement states that KFOR makes a key contribution to stability in Kosovo and the Western Balkans, providing "a peaceful and safe environment for all communities and freedom of movement in an impartial manner."

"During his mandate, Major General Ulutash established close relations with representatives of institutions in Kosovo, the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Serbia and the international community, including EU, OSCE and UN missions," the statement said.

In the last lines of the announcement, Major General Ulutash stated what was done during his mandate: "Under my command, KFOR successfully maintained peace and security throughout Kosovo, in accordance with our long-standing UN mandate. Through a visible, flexible and adaptable attitude, we prevented the risks of renewed violence and quickly controlled situations that could lead to incidents or escalation. We further strengthened the mission and continued our role as an impartial force, working with all communities to promote safety and security for all. We also continued to provide the safe environment needed for diplomatic efforts to thrive."