Serbian Defense Minister Bratislav Gašić met with US Charge d’Affaires Alexander Titolo to discuss the advancement of bilateral defense cooperation and preparations for upcoming bilateral defense consultations between Serbia and the US. They exchanged views on the current security situation in Serbia and the region. Gašić expressed concern over the participation of the so-called Kosovo Security Force in an international exercise organized by the US armed forces in Kosovo, stating it violates UN Security Council Resolution 1244 and the military technical agreement. It was emphasized that KFOR is the only legitimate armed formation in Kosovo and Metohija and guarantees security for all citizens. Serbia remains committed to military neutrality, promoting peace, dialogue, and regional stability, as well as enhancing cooperation with all relevant international actors. The US representative confirmed respect for Serbia’s military neutrality and the importance of maintaining open communication.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets tend to emphasize Serbia’s commitment to peace, dialogue, and regional stability, highlighting concerns about military escalations and the importance of respecting international agreements such as UNSCR 1244. They may critique the involvement of Kosovo Security Forces in military exercises as provocative and stress the need for diplomatic solutions.
Center: Centrist sources report the facts of the meeting and cooperation between Serbia and the US, focusing on the mutual respect for Serbia’s military neutrality and the ongoing dialogue. They present the concerns about Kosovo Security Forces participation in exercises as part of the broader security context without strong bias, emphasizing cooperation and stability.
Right: Right-leaning media emphasize Serbia’s sovereignty and military neutrality, strongly criticizing the participation of Kosovo Security Forces in US-organized exercises as violations of international law and threats to Serbia’s security. They highlight Serbia’s firm stance on maintaining its territorial integrity and the importance of strong defense cooperation with the US to counter regional threats.
