The UK Ministry of Defense said that it will deploy 200 soldiers to KFOR in Kosovo following increasing tensions in the northern Kosovo.

Following a request from Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), US General Chris Cavoli, and approval by the North Atlantic Council, the UK will deploy around 200 soldiers from 1st Battalion of the Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment in the coming days to join the 400-strong British contingent already in Kosovo as part of an annual exercise, said the Defense Ministry.

This deployment is testament to the leadership and agility of UK defense and will provide strength and expertise to NATO, as part of our pivotal and unwavering commitment to the alliance, said the Ministry press release.

The Chief of the Defense Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, said the deployment of the 1st Battalion demonstrates that UK continues to be a fundamental part of the NATO alliance, sharing military expertise and strength.

“The extension of our support to the Kosovo Force (KFOR) underlines our unwavering commitment to NATO and the security of the Western Balkans region,” said Radakin, adding that the UK forces will be available to conduct operations in accordance with KFOR’s mandate to maintain a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for all people of Kosovo.