A unit of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) has joined U.S. troops in a peacekeeping mission in Kuwait for the first time in an international mission since Kosovo declared independence in 2008.
The U.S. Department of Defense announced the KSF troops arrival in Kuwait on Sunday.
The DOD is proud to join @KSF_Kosova in its first co-deployment in Kuwait. During this mission, Kosovo partners will gain real-world mechanics and logistics experience working with @USArmy units. #StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/STG4sMtFS9
— Department of Defense 🇺🇸 (@DeptofDefense) May 8, 2021
The Kosovo Ministry of Defense praised the start of the mission, stressing that it will strengthen their ability to defend the country and improve cooperation with the U.S. army. Kosovo is now a contributor to international peace and security, they noted.
U.S. Ambassador Philip S. Kosnett said the deployment shows Kosovo’s “willingness to embrace responsibilities beyond its borders that contribute to regional & global security.”
Kosovo’s parliament approved the deployment of KSF troops on January 5, followed by the president’s authorization the next day.
The KSF will transform into the Kosovo Army within 2028, according to legal changes passed in parliament in 2018.
The armies of the US, UK, and Turkey have been assisting this transformation.
The KSF has 2,747 active soldiers, and aims to double the number while securing a reserve force of 3,000.
