Germany’s embassy in Kosovo expressed deep concern on Monday over what it described as attempts by Kosovo’s outgoing Vetëvendosje-led government to politicise a search-and-rescue operation conducted by the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) at Lake Ujman.
In a statement, the embassy said the operation had been facilitated and approved by NATO-led KFOR for “strictly humanitarian reasons” following the death of a young man. The embassy warned that the removal of KFOR visuals from official promotional material by the Defence Ministry and Vetëvendosje representatives contributed to a “misleading narrative” that could undermine public trust.
“The tragic loss of a young life should be a moment of collective mourning, not a political opportunity,” the embassy said.
It also criticised public claims by Vetëvendosje that this marked “the first FSK mission in northern Kosovo,” saying such declarations misrepresented the nature and intent of the operation.
“Statements by political actors framing this as ‘the first FSK operation in the north’ distort the spirit and purpose of the deployment,” the embassy said. “Equally concerning are allegations of image manipulation—specifically, the removal of visible KFOR escort elements—to promote a misleading narrative. Such actions risk eroding public trust and diverting attention from the mission’s humanitarian focus.”
The German Embassy reaffirmed its full support for KFOR and its mandate, expressing sincere appreciation for both KFOR and KSF personnel involved in the recovery efforts.
“Their professionalism and cooperation serve the public good and are a reminder of what can be achieved when institutions work together in the service of human dignity,” the statement concluded.