Transfer of Authority in KFOR

Text: Zoltán István Vasadi | Photo: by the author | 08:59 September 28, 2026

KFOR Tactical Reserve Battalion (KTRBN) of NATO-led mission in Kosovo held its Transfer of Authority ceremony in Camp Novo Selo. During the ceremony, Lieutenant Colonel Botond Hetényi handed over command of the KTRBN to Lieutenant Colonel Róbert Kiss. This gesture also marked the end of the tour of the Hungarian component of the KTRBN, the 34th rotation of the Hungarian Defence Forces KFOR Contingent as its duties have been officially assumed by the 35th rotation.

The event was presided over by Brigadier General Federico Collina, Deputy Commander of KFOR and it was attended – among others – by László István Dux, Ambassador of Hungary to Kosovo and Andrei Stănescu, Head of the Romanian Liaison Office in Kosovo.

In his speech, Brigadier General Collina expressed his appreciation to Lieutenant Colonel Hetényi for his outstanding professional expertise and dedicated leadership. He highlighted that under the outgoing commander's leadership, the battalion, with troops from Hungary and Romania, consistently maintained a high level of readiness, excellent preparedness, cohesion, and precise situational awareness.

The deputy commander also welcomed the new battalion commander, Lieutenant Colonel Róbert Kiss, while reaffirming KFOR's unwavering commitment to guaranteeing a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for all people living in Kosovo. He also highlighted that KFOR continues to carry out its tasks in accordance with its mandate based on UN Security Council Resolution 1244, working continuously and impartially for peace and stability.