Number: RL30374
Title: KOSOVO: LESSONS LEARNED FROM OPERATION ALLIED FORCE
Authors: Paul E. Gallis, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: This report examines the lessons learned from Operation Allied Force, NATO's effort to make President Milosevic of Yugoslavia yield to its demands over Kosovo. It analyzes NATO's political and military objectives; examines why Milosevic accepted NATO's terms; and evaluates Russia's role in the conflict. The report also assesses European/Canadian shortcomings in military capabilities made evident by the conflict; reviews the performance of the three new allies and the implications of their performance for possible further enlargement of the alliance; and encapsulates the range of allied viewpoints during the conflict and the political importance of maintaining a unified NATO position. Finally, the report analyzes the implications of the conflict for non-Article V missions for NATO, and the conclusions that potential NATO adversaries might draw from the war.
Pages: 27
Date: Updated November 19, 1999