‘I won’t speculate,’ says COMKFOR
about Dec. 10 deadline

In front of about 40 journalists, the general said he would not get involved in the politics of the Dec. 10 deadline for the troika report on the status of Kosovo.

“It’s the job of the politicians to say what they say,” said General de Marnhac. “…I won’t speculate. We have a very clear mission, and I don’t see that changing. We will continue to provide a safe and secure environment to all the citizens of Kosovo.”

After an introduction and statement from the general, he opened the floor for questions. Most reporters wanted the general’s insight on what might happen to the region on and after Dec. 10. General de Marnhac repeated his key message of safety and security for Kosovo no matter what political things take place.

In regards to creating a NATO state in Kosovo, General de Marnhac said that definitely is not part of his mission here.

“I’m creating nothing,” said General de Marnhac. “It’s definitely not our business (military). COMKFOR has no intentions to establish a state on behalf of NATO.”

While he couldn’t answer questions about what might happen in December, General de Marnhac did acknowledge that KFOR does plan for contingencies.

“The military always plans,” said General de Marnhac. “NATO and KFOR have been engaged in prudent planning…This is usual business when you are military.”

For the time being, General de Marnhac said there is no plan to increase the number of troops in Kosovo. He said he’s confident in the people of Kosovo’s will to want a safe Kosovo, and the people will help preserve the peace as much as possible.

The general closed the press conference by telling the reporters he hoped he could meet them on a regular basis as was necessary to give them information. He thanked everyone for attending and reminded the media that KFOR is here to support the people of Kosovo, and the media has the important job of getting that message to the people.

(Story by Tech. Sgt. Jason Smith)