Kosovo to Host Europe’s Largest Military Exercise, “Defender Europe 25/Immediate Response

The Minister of Defense of Kosovo, Ejup Maqedonci in the middle and Kosovar and Albanian generals on his side looking through binoculars

The Minister of Defense of Kosovo, Ejup Maqedonci, has announced that Kosovo, through the Kosovo Security Force (KSF), will host the largest military exercise in Europe, Defender Europe 25/Immediate Response.

According to Maqedonci, preparations for this exercise are progressing as planned, and he is confident that its execution will be successful.

"Today, in Mnelë, Albania, together with the Commander of the KSF, Lieutenant General Bashkim Jashari, we visited our troops—specifically the Mortar Platoon of the Third Infantry Regiment," Maqedonci stated.

"This unit is conducting mortar firing training with 120mm mortars as part of strengthening the combat capabilities of the KSF and preparing for the Defender Europe 2025 exercise," he added.

An Albanian soldier making the double-headed eagle with his hands

During his visit, Maqedonci emphasized that Kosovo’s army is on par with NATO forces in terms of professional training, motivation, and weaponry.

"The Republic of Kosovo, through the Kosovo Security Force, will serve as the host of the largest military exercise in Europe, Defender Europe 25/Immediate Response," he reiterated.

He expressed confidence in the readiness of Kosovo’s forces, stating: "We reaffirmed that our army meets NATO standards in professional training, motivation, and armament. Together, we are stronger!"