Kosovo Defense Minister Ejup Maqedonci said he expects the ban on Kosovo Security Force (KSF) presence in northern Kosovo without prior consent from the KFOR commander, in line with an agreement between Kosovo and NATO of 2013 which is still in effect, to be lifted following “new political efforts and once new conditions are created.”

“The north is part of the Republic of Kosovo,” Maqedonci said in an interview with RTK and added that the Kosovo Security Force will be ready to defend the country’s territory when that becomes necessary.

The Minister also commented on Serbia’s bases near Kosovo that are “keeping awake” the KSF.

He said the KSF is developing according to a plan made in cooperation with the allies.

Maqedonci said the budget for the KSF has been increased by 120 percent, RTK2 reported.

„This budget has obviously influenced the increase of military capacities, recruitment, procurement of military equipment,“ said the Minister announcing that, by 2025, the KBS will have three infantry regiments tasked with protecting the country.