More than 30,000 sorties have been flown as part of NATO's air
campaign against the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia's (FRY) military
forces. Over one third of the Yugoslav Air Force's frontline combat
aircraft and 75% of fixed surface to air missile sites have now
been destroyed, along with over one third of Serb heavy forces on
the ground in Kosovo. Serb forces remaining in Kosovo are suffering
great difficulty in moving around, and are becoming increasingly
isolated.
The Alliance continues to concentrate its attacks on military and
related assets and infrastructure and to make extreme efforts to
avoid any civilian casualties and collateral damage. It deeply regrets
all civilian casualties.
Guidelines have been drawn up for humanitarian agencies wishing
to operate in FRY, to help them minimise the risk if they enter
the country during the air campaign. A system for notifying their
movements through the UNHCR in Geneva has also been established.
NATO troops continue to provide support to the humanitarian effort
led by the UNHCR in Albania and the former Yugoslav Republic of
Yugoslavia (FYROM) (1). In both countries, NATO is building
extra refugee camps, as well as improving the infrastructure to
help with the efficient distribution of humanitarian aid. In Albania,
transport is being provided for refugees who wish to move from the
overcrowded camps in the North, which remain within the range of
Serb artillery, to new camps which NATO has helped build in the
South.
The Alliance notes that President Slobodan Milosevic has become
the first sitting Head of State and Government in history to be
indicted for wholesale war crimes and crimes against humanity, including
murders and forced deportations.
NATO is now pursuing an end to the Kosovo Crisis on four fronts:
- The air campaign continues to intensify, with increasing success;
- NATO is supporting the vigorous diplomatic efforts to achieve
a negotiated settlement, while also working closely with neighbouring
nations to ensure that the crisis does not spread;
- Substantial assistance continues to be given to the humanitarian
efforts in the region. The Alliance's vital support has been welcomed
by the UNHCR;
- In conjunction with other organisations, NATO is participating
in the development of a long-term strategy for South East Europe,
to try and ensure lasting stability for the region.
1. Turkey recognises the Republic of Macedonia
with its constitutional name.
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