Balkans
KFOR gets a new commander: Italy’s Maj. Gen. Vergori succeeds Türkiye’s Ulutaş in Pristina
Major General Roberto Vergori of Italy has taken over the NATO-led Kosovo Force from Türkiye's Major General Özkan Ulutaş at a ceremony in Pristina.
Major General Roberto Vergori of Italy has taken command of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR), succeeding Major General Özkan Ulutaş of Türkiye, NATO said on 15 October. The change-of-command ceremony took place on 14 October at KFOR Headquarters in Pristina.
Admiral George M. Wikoff, Commander of Allied Joint Force Command Naples, presided over the ceremony, which was attended by representatives of Kosovo’s institutions and the international community, according to NATO.
What was said
Wikoff praised Ulutaş for two tours as KFOR commander, citing his engagement with communities across Kosovo and his work with the Kosovo Police and the EU Rule of Law Mission (EULEX). He credited the outgoing commander with “initiative, adaptability, and selfless commitment to the mission.”
Ulutaş said KFOR’s goal was to contribute to lasting security for everyone in Kosovo, and that the force also supported the EU-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina. Vergori said KFOR personnel “remain deeply committed to fulfilling our UN mandate.”
Posture under review
NATO describes the security situation in Kosovo as generally stable and improving. In June 2026 the Alliance announced that it would optimise KFOR’s posture to keep the mission fit for purpose. That process is continuing and, according to NATO, will bring a gradual and calibrated adjustment of KFOR’s posture and strength over the following year. NATO says the approach is conditions-based and can be reversed if security developments require it.
KFOR operates under UN Security Council Resolution 1244 of 1999. NATO says it acts impartially and in close coordination with the Kosovo Police and EULEX, and it describes the Western Balkans as strategically important.
The handover comes as political tension in the region continues; Geopolitiki recently reported on “The Serbian flag will fly over Prizren,” says Serbia’s Dačić; Kosovo reacts after Radoičić appears at a ruling-party rally.