Rutte: NATO is concerned about the situation in BiH and Kosovo

(Patria) - NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated today that the North Atlantic Alliance is particularly concerned about the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo, reports RSE.

Speaking in the European Parliament about the situation in BiH, Rutte emphasized that it is of fundamental importance to avoid a security vacuum in the country.

He expressed full support for the Althea mission and added that the Alliance will maintain close contacts at all levels to ensure that they effectively manage all potential challenges from BiH together.

In his speech, Rutte also addressed the security situation in Kosovo, confirming that NATO officials are in regular contact with Pristina and Belgrade, especially in light of the election campaign in Kosovo, to prevent potential tensions.

- We are in contact with both Kosovo and Serbia to ensure that the elections to be held in early February do not lead to destabilization. That is also crucial - said Rutte.

He emphasizes that it is necessary to pay special attention to the Western Balkan region, which he called a key neighborhood.

Rutte expressed deep concern about the security situation on the European continent due to the campaign waged by Russia.

- We are not at war, but it cannot be said that we are at peace - stated the Secretary General of the Alliance, telling Europeans that it is necessary to invest in defense.

Otherwise, he added, "prepare to learn Russian or flee to New Zealand".