Across the World: United States

Troops to stay in Kosovo

The United States will continue its troop presence in Kosovo until at least late next year, US Defense Secretary Robert Gates said yesterday, reaffirming US support for the newly declared nation in the face of stern opposition from Russia.

Gates' visit marked the first time a US Cabinet member has been to Kosovo since the country declared its independence in February. And it underscored the escalating tensions between NATO allies and Moscow.