Serbian Troop Numbers Return To Normal Along Kosovo Border

Serbian army chief of staff, General Milan Mojsilovic, announced on Monday that the number of Serbian troops deployed near the border with Kosovo has been restored to normal levels. This comes three days after Washington had urged Belgrade to withdraw a "large military deployment" from the region. General Mojsilovic addressed reporters in Belgrade, stating, "The operational regime of the (Serbian army) units tasked with securing the administrative line with Kosovo is back to normal." He went on to explain that the troop count had been reduced from 8,350 to 4,500 approximately a week following a deadly shooting incident in Kosovo's northern region. The situation had garnered international attention after the United States expressed concerns about the heightened military presence near the Kosovo border. Washington's call for a reduction in troop numbers was seen as an effort to de-escalate tensions in the region. The initial increase in troop levels had raised alarm bells, with Kosovo authorities voicing their apprehensions over the potential for further hostilities. The subsequent reduction in troop numbers is seen as a positive step towards restoring stability along the Kosovo-Serbia border. While the exact reasons for the troop withdrawal have not been disclosed, it is clear that both sides are making efforts to prevent any further escalation of tensions. The situation will continue to be closely monitored by the international community, as maintaining peace and stability in the Balkans remains a top priority for many nations.