The United States and Kosovo should sign a bilateral security agreement to strengthen their current levels of security cooperation, not merely as a symbol of friendship but part of a strategy to expand bilateral relations, elevate Kosovo’s statehood, and enhance US leadership in the Western Balkans. And Donald Trump is well-placed to make it happen.
The US has demonstrated its commitment to Kosovo’s defence, most recently with congressional authorisation for military training under the 2024 National Defense Authorisation Act and approval of Kosovo’s $75 million purchase of 246 Javelin anti-tank missiles to strengthen deterrence.
A bilateral security agreement would build a security supply chain guaranteeing Kosovo’s access to American assets while also strengthening US leadership in the region. It would also help steer Kosovo along its path toward membership of NATO, the world’s premier security alliance.
Continued development of the Kosovo Security Forces through regular consultations in military education initiatives, joint exercises, crisis response, and international peacekeeping missions will align Kosovo with NATO operational standards.
