Skopje, 23 May 2025 (MIA) - From May 26 to June 9, North Macedonia is hosting Immediate Response 2025, a key component of the major multinational exercise DEFENDER 2025 with approximately 12,000 troops participating across Europe. More than 2,000 partner and allied soldiers from the host nation, the United States, Montenegro, Kosovo, Austria, Greece, Albania, Italy, and the United Kingdom will take part, the Embassy of the United States said in a press release Friday.  

The exercise, according to the press release, tests NATO’s ability to respond to evolving security threats, including cyberattacks, while serving as a vital platform to refine multinational cooperation and ensure participating forces are well-prepared to burden-share in complex and contested environments.

"Immediate Response 2025 is a clear demonstration of the close and growing partnership between the United States and North Macedonia. Through joint training, community engagement, and cooperation with our NATO Allies, we are strengthening our collective commitment to peace and security. These exercises enhance military readiness and bring our communities closer together," U.S. Ambassador Angela Aggeler said.

The Embassy stressed that the exercise coincides with the 32nd anniversary of the National Guard Bureau's State Partnership Program between the Vermont National Guard and North Macedonia.

“This marks a significant milestone in a partnership built on shared values,” the Embassy stressed.

The Embassy said a static display would be held on June 1 in the city square in Kavadarci featuring weapons, vehicles, climbing equipment, mine-detecting robots, tactical gear, drones and outdoor games with participation from Albania, Austria, Italy, North Macedonia, and the U.S., while on June 2 a multinational live-fire event as well as media and distinguished observer day will be held at the Krivolak Training Area.

“The U.S. and North Macedonia continue to strengthen their partnership across defense, education, entrepreneurship, and civil society, supporting North Macedonia’s institutional development and security capabilities.   The two nations remain focused on expanding cooperation in energy, defense, commerce, and cultural exchange, ensuring long-term prosperity and security. Immediate Response 2025 exemplifies peace through strength by enhancing NATO’s preparedness and collective defense,” the Embassy stressed.

On Wednesday, the Chief of the Army General Staff, Major General Sashko Lafchiski, said the drill is one of the largest to be held in the country so far with around 2200 soldiers from seven NATO and two partner countries taking part.

“Among other things, the exercise aims to boost interoperability between allied and partner forces, as well as improve joint action in complex conditions and the swift reaction of forces in the eastern part of Europe,” Lafchiski said.

Photo: MIA Archive